Resignation and Appointment of Independent Directors

Being AI Limited (NZX : BAI) advises that effective immediately, two of its independent directors have resigned and have been replaced by the appointment of two new independent directors.

Being AI would like to thank Roger Gower and Joe Jensen, who have both made significant contributions during their tenure as independent directors. We extend our gratitude for their dedication and service.

Being AI is pleased to announce the appointment of two new independent directors, Andy Higgs and Brett O'Riley.

In order to take up the role of Independent Director of Being AI, Brett O’Riley has become non-executive chair of Manawaroa Education LP, a limited partnership owned by Being AI.

These changes and appointments come in support of traction with deep technology initiatives outlined by Group CEO David McDonald at Being AI’s AGM in September.

Andy Higgs, Independent Director, Being AI

Andy Higgs is renowned for expertise in strategic leadership and innovation, particularly within the related domains of digital identity, AI strategy and the open metaverse.

Andy is a creative and outcome-focused leader with a highly developed commercial skill set and an entrepreneurial approach. Recognised as an astute operator who understands the nuances of complex businesses and various market sectors, he has demonstrated a flair for identifying and securing sustainable business and latent value creation opportunities.

Andy has founded and invested in media, distribution and technology businesses having achieved several meaningful exits for shareholders. At Futureverse Corporation (previously Centrality) he has assisted with the commercialisation of a US$500M plus technology venture portfolio.

In parallel Andy has worked with the NZ Tech Alliance, DIA, Callaghan Innovation and MBIE to develop transformational policy frameworks, legislation and programmes including the Digital Identity Trust Framework, Consumer Data Right, Digital Strategy and the Future for Business in Aotearoa NZ.

Andy has served on the CCO Boards for ATEED and Rotorua Economic Development (RED). He was elected Chairman for the NZ Hot Water Association and has chaired various private companies including CentraPass, Wayver and Preserve Piha.

Andy’s formative years were spent in advisory and commercial leadership roles with Deloitte Consulting, Parex Industries (acquired by Emerson – NYSE-EMR) and MTV Networks Europe a subsidiary of Viacom (NASDAQ-VIAC).

As co-founder of Accelerate Sport (later acquired by sport management company CSM Sport and Entertainment) he sold and developed commercial rights in the world of sport and introduced long-term sponsors to the game of rugby.

Brett O’Riley, Independent Director, Being AI

Brett O’Riley brings extensive experience in management and compliance to his new role with Being AI, with a proven track record in driving transformative initiatives.

Brett is an experienced international business leader and director. He has held several major CEO roles in the private and public sector in technology, infrastructure, innovation, business services, and economic development.

Brett is currently a member of the APEC Business Advisory Council where he leads the Climate Change activity, and has also been involved with digital technology policy issues including AI. Brett is also involved in several other international focused roles looking to grow innovation-based trade and investment with China and India.

Brett is a board member in New Zealand of the Environmental Protection Agency. He is also a board member of GSD Corporation, an advisory firm involved in Green Energy, Infrastructure and Transport project work.

Brett is a former board member of the NZ Film Commission, Business New Zealand, Manaiakalani Education Trust, and Dotterel Technologies. Before that he held several other board and governance roles involving technology and telecommunications companies, and government entities.

Brett is also an international sports governor with World Bowls and has been extensively involved in other sports governance roles.

Our focus on the marketplace for AI agents

The appointments of Andy Higgs and Brett O’Riley reflect Being AI's commitment to AI-driven technology development and transformation - establishing a Board dedicated to advancing Being AI’s agentic marketplace strategy.

We believe that the expertise and vision of our new directors will be instrumental in the success of this journey. Please join us in welcoming Andy Higgs and Brett O'Riley to our board.
The new board will meet to elect or appoint a new chair in due course.

For more information contact:

David McDonald
Group CEO
Being AI Limited
Mobile: +64 27 239 7000
Email: [email protected]
Website: beingai.group
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beingaigroup

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