What is the difference between a founder, director and shareholder?

What is the difference between a founder, director and shareholder?
(Image: Getty)
Georgina Toomey
In New Zealand's dynamic business environment, business owners need to understand the key roles or “hats” they may wear as founders of their business. The terms "founder", "director", and "shareholder" are often used interchangeably. However, each role has distinct responsibilities with different legal obligations and entitlements. This article explains the differences between a founder, director, and shareholder in the context of NZ business.FoundersThe "founder" is the individual or...

More Law & Regulation

Mark Cooper – a judge knighted
Law & Regulation

Mark Cooper – a judge knighted

Mark Cooper chaired the royal commission into the Canterbury earthquakes. 

Victoria Young 02 Jun 2025
Liquidator Damien Grant survives bid to remove him
Property

Liquidator Damien Grant survives bid to remove him

The $200m Ormiston Rise housing project has been the subject of ongoing legal battles.

Maria Slade 30 May 2025
AI reaches the Employment Court
Law & Regulation

Rachael Judge: AI reaches the Employment Court

Litigants should take care to ensure that AI is used appropriately.

Rachael Judge 30 May 2025
Electricity market reform calls proliferating
Law & Regulation

Electricity market reform calls proliferating

But a new report warns there is less winter demand flexibility than thought.

Pattrick Smellie 30 May 2025