Trustee

• Represent the automotive sector on a new regulated environmental scheme
• Apply your governance experience and industry knowledge
• Help shape how New Zealand manages synthetic refrigerants

The Trust for the Destruction of Synthetic Refrigerants

The Trust for the Destruction of Synthetic Refrigerants (TDSR) was established in 1993 to manage the collection and destruction of synthetic refrigerant gases (F-gases) in Aotearoa New Zealand. Over more than three decades, TDSR's F-gas collection programme has prevented more than 1.5 million tonnes of CO₂eq greenhouse gas emissions from entering the atmosphere.

In 2026, TDSR was confirmed as the Product Stewardship Organisation (PSO) for F-gases. This means that from early 2027, the recovery and destruction of synthetic refrigerants will be regulated as a mandatory scheme under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008, with TDSR responsible for its delivery – only the second such scheme in New Zealand.

To reflect the breadth of the HVAC&R and Automotive industries it now regulates, TDSR has amended its Trust Deed to create four new Industry Representative Trustee positions. This role is nominated by the Motor Trade Association (MTA).

About the Role

The automotive sector accounts for around 40% of New Zealand's F-gas use and is comparatively unregulated relative to other parts of the HVAC&R industries. This appointment is an important mechanism for bringing the automotive sector's perspective into the Trust's decision-making and for supporting understanding and compliance with the new regulations across the sector.

As Industry Representative Trustee, you will:

• Represent the automotive sector's perspective at Board level, while at all times acting in the best interests of the Trust
• Contribute sound governance and judgement as the Trust establishes the Regulated Product Stewardship Scheme (RPSS)
• Keep MTA informed of Trust progress and matters relevant to the automotive sector
• Support MTA's communication with its membership about the role and the RPSS as it affects the automotive sector
• This is a governance appointment, not a delegate role. Once appointed, you will be expected to act independently and in accordance with your fiduciary duty to the Trust.

Skills & Experience

Alongside strong knowledge of, and connection to, the automotive sector, the Trustee will need to be able to demonstrate the following:

• Sound understanding of how the automotive industry operates – from different perspectives, so the RPSS is implemented in a way that is operationally achievable. A trades background is not a requirement – what matters most is a high-level understanding of the sector and how the new legislation may affect it
• Governance experience – you have served as a director or trustee previously and understand sound board practice
• Operational delivery experience – you have overseen or delivered complex operational programmes
• Excellent communication and influencing skills – articulate, a good listener, and able to build trust and credibility across multiple stakeholders
• High intellect and strong learning agility – able to quickly get across complex regulatory and scheme detail
• Political and relational awareness – able to navigate the differing histories, interests and priorities of the industry bodies represented on the Trust, with diplomacy
• Advocacy and government relations experience is an advantage

Commitment

There are ten in-person Trustee meetings a year in Auckland, plus at least one Board sub-committee (typically online, monthly). The term of office is three years, with the possibility of an additional term. Trustees can be based anywhere in New Zealand.

Other infrequent events like industry roadshows or assisting the executive on specific projects aligned with Trustee skills, are also requirements of the role. These are remunerated appointments and Trustees can be based anywhere in New Zealand.

To apply in strict confidence now, click ‘Apply for this job’ or email your cover letter and CV in a PDF format wherever possible to [email protected] quoting 9261SIsk. Applications close on 6 September 2026.  Emails will be electronically acknowledged and further correspondence may be by email.

To view the Candidate Briefing Information, please click here.

For more information please phone Kate Kennedy on [+64 3 353 4353](tel:+64 3 353 4353).