Raveen Jaduram has been appointed as the new Chair of the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission Board, succeeding Dr Alan Bollard, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop announced.
Having been a member of the board since its inception in 2019, Jaduram brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. "Mr Jaduram is well placed to lead the Commission through its next phase, providing the independent advice New Zealand needs to improve its vital infrastructure system," Minister Bishop said.
Jaduram’s extensive career in infrastructure spans over three decades, including senior roles in the water industry across New Zealand and Australia. His experience includes serving as Chief Executive of Watercare and as Managing Director of Murrumbidgee Irrigation Limited, a private water company in Australia.
His appointment comes at a critical juncture, as the Commission prepares to develop the National Infrastructure Plan. This initiative aims to bring greater stability to New Zealand’s infrastructure priorities and streamline the planning, funding, and delivery of key projects.
Alongside this leadership change, Dr Sina Cotter Tait has been reappointed as a member of the board. Minister Bishop highlighted her value to the Commission: “Dr Cotter Tait’s reappointment ensures continuity and governance stability during an important time for New Zealand’s infrastructure future.”
Dr Cotter Tait is a Chartered Engineer with a PhD in Engineering and extensive governance experience. She has co-founded multiple entities and served on numerous boards providing essential services throughout New Zealand.
Minister Bishop also expressed gratitude to Dr Bollard for his contributions as Chair since 2019. Under his leadership, the Commission was established and delivered New Zealand’s first Infrastructure Strategy. “He leaves the Commission in good shape to lead the development of the National Infrastructure Plan,” Bishop noted.
Raveen Jaduram reflects on his upbringing in a small town in Fiji, where he was surrounded by an extended family of cousins. His grandparents, who emigrated from India, had 13 children.
The family was deeply embedded in the business life of Labasa, owning various enterprises, including an island resort, a hotel, a construction company, and a pharmacy. Jaduram’s father managed the local cinemas and as a result, at just 14 years old, Jaduram found himself negotiating deals with Hollywood film distributors.
His efforts brought blockbuster hits like Star Wars and James Bond films to Fijian audiences.
Raveen Jaduram admits he had little understanding of what a civil engineer’s work entailed when he applied for the degree programme. However, he was drawn to it because Auckland University offered its top scholarships in the field. After graduating, he began his career at the Fijian Housing Authority, where, as one of only three engineers, he took on significant responsibilities at just 23 years old.
In 1987, Jaduram and his family left Fiji following the country’s first coup.
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