Jemma Adams has been appointed chief executive of Otago Community Trust (OCT), replacing Barbara Bridger who resigned at the beginning of 2023. 

Jemma is currently general manager of Dunedin City Holdings Ltd, which provides leadership and oversight of a diverse portfolio of subsidiary and associate companies owned by the Dunedin City Council.

OCT chair Andy Kilsby said trustees were excited to welcome Jemma at a time when OCT has a refreshed strategic focus and a commitment to building stronger relevant community connections.

Jemma brings experience in strategic planning, stakeholder relationship building, and management of community assets and investments, along with a passion to drive change, Andy said.

“We are excited by the fresh leadership style Jemma will bring…she brings to the role experience across a range of sectors, and a reputation as a very thoughtful and successful leader who builds strong partnerships [with] those she works alongside.”

Jemma held senior managerial roles in Price Waterhouse Coopers and at Parliament and Ministerial Services before taking up her current role at Dunedin City Holdings in 2018. 

She is known in the performing arts and theatre sector in Dunedin as president of the Dunedin Repertory Society and for work in the city’s discussion about performing arts infrastructure.

Jemma said it was a privilege to become the third chief executive of the organisation since it was founded in 1988.

“Otago Community Trust plays a distinctive role as a funding organisation in Otago. I am eager to see the Trust continue to challenge and test itself on how it can best invest in the community.”

OCT has an endowment of over $287 million and provides grants to the communities residing in the provincial district of Otago - Wānaka, North Otago, Central Otago, South Otago, and Greater Dunedin.

PHOTO: Supplied