As FMANZ farewells Simi Mukherjee and Shelton Hooper from the Board, we’re celebrating not only what they have contributed around the table, but the passion for facilities management that will see them both remain very much part of the FMANZ community.
For Shelton, his three years on the Board have been an opportunity to contribute to something bigger than his own role and work alongside industry leaders united by a shared ambition for the profession.
Reflecting on the experience, Shelton says being part of a group with the same enthusiasm for professionalism has been both a learning opportunity and a reminder of the commitment involved in helping move an industry forward.
“To be part of something that is industry-based, with a whole bunch of leaders that have a shared goal and the same kind of enthusiasm for professionalism, is awesome.”
His decision to step down is also about creating space for others to have that same opportunity.
While his time on the Board comes to an end, Shelton’s contribution to FMANZ certainly doesn’t. He will continue his involvement through the Education Committee, supporting an area closely connected to strengthening capability and professionalism across the sector.
For Simi, serving on the Board has been an equally meaningful journey, providing an opportunity to contribute to a profession she is passionate about while learning from the different perspectives and sectors represented around the table.
“FM is something I’m very passionate about, and to be part of the Board, to actually contribute and have a voice, has been very meaningful.”
Like Shelton, part of Simi’s decision to step aside comes from wanting to give others the opportunity to contribute and bring their own perspectives to FMANZ.
And, in Simi’s own words, she’s “not going to say goodbye”. She will continue to play an active role through the FMANZ Foundation and Awards Committee, focusing her energy where she feels she can continue to make a meaningful contribution.
A new chapter around the Board table
As Simi and Shelton make room for new voices, we’re delighted to welcome Ben Hosking PFMANZ and John Hutchings PFMANZ to the FMANZ Board.
Both are already familiar faces within the FMANZ community and bring their own experience and perspectives from across the profession.
Ben is Facility Manager for the New Zealand International Convention Centre and Horizon Hotel at SkyCity Entertainment Group, and was recognised as a finalist for the 2026 Emerging Facilities Management Professional of the Year Award. More recently, FMANZ members heard directly from Ben as he shared some of the realities and lessons behind opening and operating two of Aotearoa’s most significant new facilities.
John also brings a longstanding connection with FMANZ, having contributed to the association in a number of capacities over the years, including previously chairing the Awards Committee. A past recipient of the FMANZ Facilities Manager of the Year Award and an FMANZ Service Award, he brings considerable industry and association experience to the table.
We look forward to seeing the perspectives and ideas Ben and John bring to the Board as FMANZ continues working to strengthen our profession and community across Aotearoa.
To Simi and Shelton, thank you for the time, thought and energy you have given to the FMANZ Board, and for everything you’ll continue to bring to our community. And to Ben and John, welcome to the table.
It feels less like a changing of the guard and more like what FMANZ is all about: experienced voices continuing to contribute, while making space for others to step forward.
