The appointment follows a planned process to broaden board capability and introduce an independent perspective to the firm’s governance framework. Simon brings extensive experience in board leadership and governance advisory across privately owned and community-focused organisations.  

Simon is currently serving a second term as elected Chair of the Upper Clutha Community Board and holds advisory board roles with several Otago based organisations. As a governance practitioner, he has supported DCHL subsidiaries and regional businesses including A G Foley, Mason & Wales and Breen Construction. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) from the University of Canterbury and is based in Wānaka with his family.  

In his role as an Independent Board Member, Simon will support:  

• objective, well-tested decision making through best practice governance
• strategic clarity, including leadership and succession planning
• long-term sustainability through strong oversight and alignment with industry standards

Gallaway Cook Allan welcomes Simon Telfer to the Board.