Meet our Board
The Crescendo board are highly skilled industry professionals from media to finance that are united behind our mission to help the rangatahi of New Zealand to achieve brighter futures.
Our Board members
Liz Fraser
Chairperson
Liz is an accomplished leader with a career spanning both the media and airline industries. She has performed as a soloist in choirs and earned an LTCL Diploma in Singing from the Trinity College of London. When Liz was looking for an opportunity to give back, Crescendo stood out with its focus on rangatahi and music education. At Crescendo, Liz brings her extensive leadership and industry expertise to the table. Her focus on people development aligns perfectly with Crescendo’s mission and she is excited to see young people grow and perform at their best. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family, running, Pilates and reading a good novel, especially while on holiday.
Carlos Nicholls
Trustee
Carlos is passionate about his investments in Crescendo as he takes delight in work that combines strategy, execution and community benefit, rather than financial outcome on its own. An MBA candidate and graduate from University of Otago, qualified for commercial property development and governance, his achievements have resulted in a broad commercial career across large organisations. He knows how to shift focus, turning ideas into plans, partnerships and outcomes. Carlos enjoys a game of golf, family time and getting outdoors for a reset especially when paired with food, cooking and music. When asked for his favourite album, Carlos settled an equal tie between Eyes Open by Snow Patrol, Only by the Night by Kings Of Leon and Wilder Mind by Mumford & Sons.
Katya Sukhova
Treasurer / Trustee
Katya is a qualified accountant and a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. Supporting the Crescendo Trust as treasurer, Katya has over 12 years of experience in professional accounting services, having worked at PwC in Kazakhstan, Australia and New Zealand. She loves opera, theatre and live performances, and appreciates music in all its forms. As a teenager, Katya experienced the thrill and nerves of performing on stage playing guitar, and is rooting for anyone and everyone putting themselves out there with their art. Katya is passionate about the not-for-profit sector elevating the role of culture in forming and expressing the personal and societal identities.
Gareth Codd
Trustee
Gareth has over 25 years of experience in the media industry. He’s held executive roles in sales, marketing, operations, data and technology, in both New Zealand and the UK. Crescendo’s mission resonates deeply with Gareth. More interested in sports than academia, he left school at the age of 15, however, says he was fortunate enough to get a second chance and now holds an MBA (Distinction) from Massey University. He credits Crescendo with empowering rangatahi to also pursue more positive pathways, enabling youth to explore their musical passions. His musical tastes are diverse, from Tool to Salmonella Dub. He prioritises his wellbeing by hitting the gym, riding his motorbike and enjoying holidays with family.
Gigi Green
Trustee
Gigi has over 20 years of experience in financial services. She is currently the Executive Manager of Quality & Insights at IAG. Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Fine Art, a Higher Diploma in Education and she is a Chartered Member of the Institute Of Directors. She is thrilled to be part of an organisation that prioritises and creates safe spaces, mentors and fosters confidence, and offers opportunities for career development and creative expression, allowing our youth to truly be themselves. When not chilling in the sunshine listening to an audiobook, Gigi is an avid sports woman who has competed internationally for Ironman and in rowing. Her all time favourite album is the Gladiator soundtrack.
Marcus Powell
Founder / Advisor
Marcus was the guitarist in the alt metal band Blindspott, and City of Souls. In founding Crescendo Trust of Aotearoa, he utilised his network of musicians to inspire and mentor the next generation of young artists. Through music mentoring, Marcus saw the value and reward in connecting with young people and creating spaces where they can learn from and be inspired by each other. In 2023 Marcus resigned from Crescendo and moved to Northland with his family for a change of scene and pace of life, where he founded a new organisation WithIN Nature. He can now be found most days on the farm herding cows.
Craig Spillane
Strategic Advisor
Craig plays a vital role in supporting and empowering rangatahi. He is passionate about the intersection of commerce, music, creative expression and driving real positive change. With over 30 years in the New Zealand music, media, and entertainment sectors, Craig has extensive experience in strategy, buying and media implementation. He is committed to helping create productive and engaged creative pathways for young people and aims to leverage his expertise to support their growth and development. One of Craig’s greatest achievements is the joy and pride he feels watching his children grow into wonderful adults. Outside work, he finds solace in hiking, beach walks and attending live music events.
