Leadership

Kevin joins the Trust Board as an Alumni and past parent, having also been part of the Trust Board since 2018. In 1985, he held the role of Head Prefect at the College, paving the way for his future. Initial studies at Otago University saw him find a career in independent schooling in England and New Zealand. Later ventures to the United States saw him contribute to corporations and universities in Boston and New York, culminating in a doctorate from Boston University. In 2003, Kevin returned home, becoming the Director of Learning and Teaching in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor at Auckland University from 2013 to 2021.

In 2023, Damon joined the College as Principal. With a stellar record in educational leadership and a deep understanding of faith-based independent education, his approach includes humility, compassion, and a commitment to collaboration. 
Hailing from Auckland, Damon began his career at Auckland Grammar, then spent 22 years in Australia at Brisbane Grammar School and Wesley College Melbourne. From 2005 to 2009, Damon took a break from education to work as an assistant coach for a high-performance sports team.
Damon also served as Deputy Headmaster at Brisbane Boys' College, a Presbyterian and Methodist School, and as Acting Headmaster during a transition period in 2021.

Peter Cassie has led the Boys’ School since 2012, dedicating 33 of his 39-year career to boys' primary education. Previously, he was Principal at Scots College Middle and Preparatory Schools for a decade and held key roles at King’s School, including Dean of the Senior School.  Peter is a strong advocate for independent school structures and their unique benefits for students, staff, alumni, and parents.  He emphasises the importance of a values-based system, believing it is essential for setting high standards and fostering strong, meaningful relationships within the school community.

Marianne joined the Girls’ School as Principal in January 2024. With a wealth of experience, a strong faith, and a passion for exceptional education, her career has seen her lead innovation within several leading independent schools in New Zealand and Australia.
Marianne comes to us from Ravenswood School for Girls, Sydney, where she headed up Teaching and Learning Excellence. Her extensive senior leadership experience also includes Deputy Principal positions at Queen Margaret College, Wellington, and Saint Kentigern College.
Marianne is passionate about the research that informs exceptional teaching and learning. She has completed a masters in school leadership, which was awarded with Distinction.

Megan joined Saint Kentigern Preschool as Principal in 2023. With a Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood Education from the University of Auckland, Megan is a seasoned leader in early childhood education. Initially a teacher, Megan transitioned into leadership positions to deliver exceptional educational outcomes for young children. 
Megan joined Bear Park, where she managed the Kohimarama and Remuera centres and was a member of the organisation's pedagogical leadership team. Through Megan's leadership, student enrolments increased, programme offerings expanded, and teaching abilities elevated. Megan is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and has a passion for fostering a values-based curriculum of learning.

Previously as Chief Operating Officer, Merle now leads Master Planning and other strategic, innovative projects, exploring new income streams and enterprise development.      She is an accomplished C-Suite leader with a track record in driving organisational direction, change, and instilling operational excellence. She holds advanced business degrees from the University of South Africa, leadership programmes from Harvard and Melbourne Business Schools, and governance qualifications from New Zealand and Australia. 

She brings significant experience across the functional spectrum, with a particular interest in master planning and new developments.

Her contributions to the education sector have been formally recognised in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. She contributed to education with positions as President of ASBA NZ Inc., an ISNZ executive, and Chairman of ASBA Ltd, and she was recognised through national awards in New Zealand and Australia.

A career in finance and operations has seen Alison lead large, multi-national teams as well as sole charge responsibilities for smaller entrepreneurial ventures in both New Zealand and the UK. This diverse background equips her with financial and operational versatility as well as a strong passion for people, community and continuous learning. 

Her credentials include a Fellow Chartered Accountant (ICAEW), which she achieved through Deloitte London.  

Alison spearheads Saint Kentigern's financial stewardship, marketing & communications and property management. Her role encompasses financial reporting, systems efficiency and continuous improvement. She collaborates closely with Saint Kentigern's school leadership, offering financial insight to uphold standards of excellence in all financial matters. 

As Head of People & Culture Sandy is responsible for leading the HR strategy and cultivating a supportive work environment. She brings a wealth of HR experience from a range of sectors, including education (early childhood to university), local government, construction and manufacturing. Additionally, Sandy has successfully managed her own consulting business. 

Sandy holds a Bachelor of Business Studies, Diploma in Teaching and Applied Management and a National Certificate in Adult Literacy. She has received national recognition for her work in adult literacy and won a major grant from Ako Aotearoa to research a collaborative approach to mentoring apprentices.

Tim is an experienced technology leader responsible for guiding Saint Kentigern’s digital direction and delivering value to the school community through technology. He brings extensive international experience from engineering, consulting, and enterprise environments, having held senior leadership roles across diverse sectors from aerospace to retail.

His role at Saint Kentigern focuses on advancing digital capability and supporting excellence in teaching and learning through technology.