BUSINESS OPERATIONS TEAM

Our business operations team are experts in their fields, with the experience and know-how to ensure your client journey is a smooth one.

Based across our Stewart Group Hastings and Wellington premises, our team are always happy to help if you need it.

For more details, hover your mouse over or click on the relevant team member to access their full profile.

SUSAN JOHANSON

Group Finance
& Operations Manager

TARAIA ROBIN

Financial Adviser
& Relationship Manager

EMMA GIBSON

Compliance & Business Improvement Manager

VENITA SIMCOX

Marketing & Client
Experience Manager

ANNETTE MACLEOD

Annette joined Stewart Group in 2018. She has over 20 years’ experience in investment and wealth management.

As our Paraplanner, she works alongside our advisers, providing a wide range of support across financial planning and investment services, assisting with technical documentation, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and internal processes. 

Known for her meticulous attention to detail and approachable nature, Annette delivers friendly, personalised service that makes clients feel supported and confident in their financial journey.

Outside of work, Annette enjoys spending time with her family on their farm and exploring the scenic limestone tracks of Hawke’s Bay. 

STEPHANIE HOWE

Stephanie joined Stewart Group in 2021 as a Client Service Officer and later advanced to the role of Paraplanner. She has a strong background in banking, with valuable experience in business and rural lending, project management, and product development. Based in our Wellington office, Stephanie provides exceptional support to both our advisers and clients.

REBEKAH TRAFFORD

Rebekah joined our team in June 2024 as a Client Services Officer.

She supports our wealth advisers and clients, utilising her many years of experience providing administration support across various industries including real estate and finance.

JACKIE WATTS

Jackie recently joined Stewart Group as Senior Accountant, bringing a strong background in the primary sector and a practical understanding of the agricultural industry.

Born in Southampton, England, Jackie’s family immigrated to New Zealand when she was a child and grew up in Hawke’s Bay. Her accounting career began in Invercargill, where she worked in agricultural-focused CA firms as well as in a management accounting role within food manufacturing. Before moving into accounting, Jackie gained hands-on experience in the primary sector on sheep and beef stations and dairy farms, giving her valuable insight into the realities of farm businesses and the challenges faced by clients.

Jackie has extensive experience in agricultural reporting, tax compliance, financial management and accounting systems, with strong capability across Xero and MYOB platforms. She is known for her analytical approach and her ability to translate financial information into practical, actionable insights.

Outside of work, Jackie is passionate about endurance sport and completed the Taupō Ironman in March 2026.

CHRIS NORRIE

Chris joined Stewart Group as a temporary team member, and it didn’t take long for her talent and warmth to shine through. After just four months, we were delighted to welcome her into a permanent role as our accountant.

 With over 30 years of experience across various financial areas of business, Chris brings deep expertise and a steady hand to our operations. Her attention to detail and collaborative spirit make her an essential part of the team.

Beyond her professional skills, Chris is also the heart of our morning routine. Her coffee brews are a daily highlight, and the team always appreciates the sweet treats she shares to keep spirits high.

Outside the office, Chris enjoys reading, cooking and spending quality time with her children, grandchildren and her beloved dog, Ollie.

PRATHME RABESHEN

With over a decade of experience in marketing, Prathme brings both strategic insight and creative passion to her role at Stewart Group. After relocating from Sri Lanka to New Zealand in 2023, she joined the team to lead all marketing initiatives, blending creative thinking with hands-on expertise.

Driven by an unwavering enthusiasm for creativity, Prathme views marketing not just as a profession but as her true passion.

Outside the office, Prathme’s love for creativity continues. She finds joy in dancing, painting and cooking. Anything that sparks her imagination and allows her to express herself! .

GERMAINE MEEUWS

Germaine was a cherished member of the Stewart Group family. We were deeply saddened by her passing in January 2025.

She was a true go-getter, a master of her tasks, and impeccable in everything she did. Her wit, kindness, and unwavering dedication made her the go-to person for anything and everything.  Germaine will always be fondly remembered at Stewart Group.

 

Contact Stewart Financial Group

At the core of our operations is the desire to help people. If you’re looking for a second opinion or need help getting started on your financial journey, contact us today and book your free, unbiased discovery session with one of our expert financial advisers.