Our People
Chief Executive
Finance Manager
Administration Manager
Relationship Manager
Brand Manager
Melissa Haberfield // Chief Executive
Melissa has a background of working in the events industry as well as having held leadership roles in various New Zealand and international companies since 1997. With her strong engagement in fundraising for charities and organisations, in particular ones that support and empower women and children, she is strongly driven to make a positive difference in her community. Combined with her governance experience, she will build on the solid foundation of support and provide leadership for CMRF in the future.
Email: melissa@cmrf.org.nz
DDI: 03 353 1240
Aleisha Woods // Finance Manager
Aleisha is in charge of the CMRF Office and is responsible for administering the grant rounds for the Foundation as well as overseeing all administrative functions for both CMRF and its subsidiary, The NZ Brain Research Institute.
Email: aleisha@cmrf.org.nz
DDI: 03 353 1240
If you have any questions about how you can help, research, grants, events or any other CMRF initiatives, our team is ready to answer all your questions. Call us on 03 353 1240 or email health@cmrf.org.nz.
Keri Bussell / Administration Manager
Keri plays a key role in supporting the planning and execution of CMRF’s fundraising events and community engagement initiatives. With a strong background in coordination and communications, she helps ensure events run smoothly and successfully. Passionate about making a meaningful difference, Keri brings a practical, people-first approach to her work, helping to strengthen relationships with sponsors, donors, and volunteers. She is proud to be part of a team dedicated to advancing life-changing research and supporting better health outcomes for all New Zealanders.
Rose-Marie Schiavuzzi // Relationship Manager
Rose-Marie is an expert in relationship management, specialising in sponsorship, stakeholder engagement, and business development. She has successfully built and nurtured partnerships for major organisations, including Westpac NZ, Telstra Australia, and leading charities across Australasia. With extensive experience in sponsorship strategy, contract negotiation, and partnership activation, she excels at connecting people and organisations to create lasting value. Her ability to foster strong relationships has secured significant funding and long-term collaborations. Known for her empathy, integrity, and exceptional communication skills, Rose-Marie builds trust with colleagues, clients, and partners alike. She is a skilled negotiator, problem solver, and strategic thinker, dedicated to enhancing community impact through meaningful connections. Passionate about people and purpose, she brings professionalism and heart to every relationship she manages.
Gail Anderson // Brand Manager
Over thirty years in the advertising industry has given Gail the opportunity to work on major accounts for some of the largest and most accomplished agencies, publishing companies and studios in the country. Along with directing creative development and implementation, Gail is a marketing and media strategy specialist, having lectured in both of these fields to such organisations as the CDC and New Zealand Marketing Association.
Over the last decade Gail has worked with a broad range of non-profit and charity organisations - both national and regional - developing and implementing fundraising campaigns that have resulted in impressive sponsor and donor growth. This means understanding the core needs of charities and giving them a voice that stands out in the crowded fundraising sector.
SUPPORT OUR CANTERBURY BASED RESEARCH
Your donation directly supports the research projects we fund, helping to create a positive impact today and for the future.
BEQUESTS AND LIVING LEGACIES
Consider leaving a charitable gift in your Will to ensure that your legacy of generosity lives on, making a difference for years to come.
BECOME A MEMBER OF THE FOUNDATION
As a member, you’ll receive exclusive invitations to our AGM, community events, celebratory functions, and enjoy meeting our Board and Researchers.
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