PrintNZ Management Advisory Group (MAG)

SCG Ltd – Joint Managing Director

Fred Soar is joint Managing Director of SCG, an organisation formed by the merger of Soar Printing and ICG in 2021. SCG is New Zealand’s largest independent communications group.

With over 150 staff, SCG draws on the print, logistics and packaging expertise of Soar Print combined with the creative, publishing and large format expertise of ICG, delivering purpose-defined creative, content, print and delivery services across all relevant consumer touchpoints for clients big and small.

Ruth has worked at PrintNZ since 1998 in a number of roles and was appointed Chief Executive in 2014.

Ruth’s experience and expertise in the industry enables her to lead the team and provide a broad range of services to the membership and the industry. “Our industry is made up of businesses that range from the very small owner/operator through to large multi-nationals that all produce a variety of fantastic work and it is very rewarding to be able to work with the people in these businesses.”

We all have the same goal – to promote print as a positive communication tool and ensure that we have a strong and vibrant industry as we co-exist with the digital world to create an unlimited array of options to communicate effectively.

Jenkins Freshpac managing director, Tony believes that adapting to the realignment of print in a digital environment is a major current focus for the sector. He notes that PrintNZ are providing members with a vision for the future, anticipating and facilitating the skills portfolio that the industry will need and providing a suite of services that are relevant to all members, no matter their scale. With a background in senior management in the kiwifruit industry, Tony entered the printing and labelling industry via Sinclair International and later joined Jenkins Group.

Following a series of senior international marketing and management positions within the New Zealand Kiwifruit Industry, Tony became involved in the printing and labelling Industry as International Marketing Director for Sinclair International in 1994.In 1999, Tony returned to New Zealand to head up Jenkins Group, and has been immersed in the general labels and packaging business in both New Zealand and Australia focusing on new business growth ever since. When the Group established Jenkins Freshpac Systems, Tony was appointed Managing Director.

Tony holds a BSc from Massey University and has completed the NZIM Advanced Executive Programme. He has been a Director on the Communications and Media Training Organisation, until they merged with Competenz, and has continued this focus on industry training by being keenly involved in the current Review of Vocational Education.

We are particularly appreciative of Tony’s commitment to the industry from the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, focussing not only on directing his own company through Covid-19, but ensuring that PrintNZ was supported and able to effectively operate during that time.

Originally from a  Chartered Accounting background, Mark has had significant corporate experience with roles as GM of the NZ Meteorological Service, CEO of the New Zealand Wool Marketing Board, and CEO of a stock exchange listed technology company. He entered the Print Industry in 2008 with the purchase of NZ Print Limited. After several acquisitions the company he owns is now called Excel Digital Limited, and is based in Wellington.

He is keen to use the experience he has gained from those roles over the years, to contribute back to the Print industry he is now a part of.

Glenda maintains regular contact with members and provides advice, updates and information on issues affecting businesses and the industry.

“One of the highlights of my role is forming relationships with Members as we get to know each other over time, and understanding how their business works and the products they produce. I enjoy being associated with an industry that is fundamental to everyday life.”

Images Unlimited managing director, Jonathan Lewis has a family background in on-demand digital printing. Jonathan emigrated to New Zealand in 2006 and soon after purchased Images Unlimited in Christchurch. Jonathan’s appointment marks PrintNZ expanding its reach into the fast growing area of sign-writing services. His personal remit is to assist PrintNZ’s ongoing evolution by attracting members from related sectors.

Lisa commenced her career as a graphic designer and then advanced through the ranks up to a senior management position at BJ Ball Papers. In 2019 she joined Oji Fibre Solutions as the Environmental Quality Manager to manage their sustainability journey across New Zealand and Australia.  Lisa is also Chairperson of the Pride In Print Awards and is committed to promoting the effectiveness and sustainability of print.

Jill joined Blue Star Group in 1998 as the Group IT Manager and held roles in both Australia and New Zealand covering IT solutions,  e-commerce and marketing strategy.  Jill was appointed Chief Operating Officer in 2016 and Chief Executive in 2017. Blue Star have a strong belief that their people are their greatest asset and are key to achieving the company’s goals and this is reflected in their commitment to training.

Jill is a strong believer in the industry working collectively for mutual advancement.

David is the…