Who are we
KCE is the owner and manager of five hydro schemes within the North Island. We're a small team, but we're big on providing value - to shareholders, neighbours, stakeholders and recreational users. This is our community.
How we work
Directors
Matt Forbes - Chair
Matt joined the KCE Board in July 2025, when Contact Energy took over Manawa Energy. He was appointed Chief Financial Officer for Contact Energy in May 2025, bringing over 20 years’ experience in corporate finance, capital markets, and strategy across New Zealand and South Africa. Since joining Contact in 2010, he has led key initiatives including over $2 billion in funding, the Contact26 strategy, and the acquisition of Manawa Energy. A chartered accountant, Matt is known for his collaborative leadership and commitment to supporting New Zealand’s decarbonisation.
Jo Bransgrove - Director
Jo is a Trustee of King Country Trust, Chair of Pihanga Health in Tūrangi and Chair of Amplify (the economic development Agency for the Taupō/Tūrangi Mangakino area). Jo holds a Bachelor of Commerce (accounting) and an MBA. Jo's previous roles include President of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, Deputy Chair Consumer NZ, GM Corporate for NZ Trade and Enterprise, Commissioner for the Insurance and Financial services ombudsman and CEO of the NZ Cancer Society.
Todd Mead - Director
Todd leads Manawa Energy’s generation operations, bringing over 25 years management and technical experience in the renewable energy industry. Todd has led teams developing new renewable energy projects, managed O&M activities and has overseen major refurbishment projects in New Zealand and overseas. Todd holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (First Class Honours) from the University of Auckland, a Master of Engineering Management from the University of Colorado and has completed Melbourne Business School’s Advanced Management Program. Todd joined Manawa Energy in 2015 and is now the General Manager of Generation.
Our team
We are located in downtown Taumarunui, our day to day business is focused around our values and committing to our purpose.
Chris Fincham - General Manager
Chris has been with KCE since 2003 working in a variety of management and leadership roles across the business before becoming general manager in 2018. He has an Electrical Engineering Degree with postgraduate qualifications in Engineering Management. Chris’ introduction to the power industry was through Alstom’s gas turbine division in Europe before moving to New Zealand and joining KCE. Chris is a Chartered Engineer.
Heather Jones - Finance Manager
Heather has worked with KCE in an advisory role since 2014 and took on the Finance Manager role in 2017. She is a Chartered Accountant with a Bachelor of Business Studies degree. Heather has been part of the NZ electricity industry since 2001 and has also worked within the industry in the Middle East and the Pacific Islands.
Want to know more?
Find out more about KCE's power generation