Julian Wilcox appointed new Ngāi Tahu COO

8:05 pm on 17 December 2015

Former broadcaster Julian Wilcox has been appointed Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu's chief officer of operations, one year after his controversial exit from Māori Television.

Mr Wilcox who is from Ngāpuhi, Te Arawa and Tūwharetoa left Māori Television after his position was disestablished.

Julian Wilcox

Julian Wilcox Photo: SUPPLIED

Mr Wilcox was a founding member of Māori Television and seen by some in the industry as a rising star having worked his way from presenting to head of news and to his finally general manager of news and current affairs.

Toko Kapea

Toko Kapea Photo: Tuia Group

After his role was disestablished he became head of communications for the Ngāi Tahu group.

Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu CEO Arihia Bennett said:

"Julian's collaborative style and commitment to Māori development and achieving whānau rangatiratanga will continue to underpin his decision-making in this new position."

Mr Wilcox won the Qantas Best Current Affairs Presenter in 2012, beating John Campbell; he has also lectured in te reo, tikanga, whaikōrero and media.

Another key appointment this week saw the announcement of governance specialist Toko Kapea to the board of Television New Zealand (TVNZ).

The Wellington lawyer and director also holds a number of directorships with Māori and iwi businesses and organisations.

Mr Kapea featured in a series of Native Affair's investigations into the Kohanga Reo National Trust and its handling of finances and management which saw a number of high level inquiries called.