Our People

Our people are at the heart of what we do.

Montana Group now employs close to 1,000 people across Tamaki Makaurau and Waikato regions with a breadth of backgrounds, knowledge, and expertise. 

Across our brands, we have a broad range of expertise from Chefs, Front of House, Logistics, Event Planning, and Operations and Sales.  

We also have a Central Services division, with specialists in Finance, IT, Procurement and Facilities, Human Resources, Branding and Communications, and Nutrition and Food Quality providing strategic and specialised support across all brands.  

We know that our people have a big influence on the experience our guests and clients receive and is why our brands ethos is defined by a simple statement — ‘I Make the Difference’.  

This ethos connects with our people, our teams, and the individuals that make a difference every day to make our guest and client experience better, friendlier, more efficient, and more memorable.  

Board of Directors

Dallas has been one of the most innovative leaders in Hamilton/Waikato for the past 20 years.  He is a Director and Co-owner of the Montana Group and holds multiple board member and shareholder roles in key Waikato businesses. He has introduced industry-changing strategies and approaches in the Hospitality and Events Industry and was crucial to the acquisition and successful operation of the inaugural Hamilton-based HSBC NZ Sevens Tournament in 2018. Dallas was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, in the June 2018 Queens Birthday Honours list for Services to, Business, Philanthropy and Sport.

Dallas Fisher, Director/Shareholder

Troy brings a unique combination of organisational and creative flair to his roles in the Montana Group having joined the Montana Family in 2006.  Starting his training in the Royal New Zealand Navy, Troy went on to work in a series of New Zealand and London’s finest restaurants.  Working alongside Michelin starred chefs has left Troy with a passion for combining originality, stimulation, taste and texture. Troy is the General Manager of the Auckland based catering operation under the Flame Tree brand and Retail sites throughout the city.

Troy Reid, Director/Shareholder

Mark was appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Montana Group in February 2023. Mark is a NZ Army trained and qualified chef with a diverse career background that has encompassed publicly listed companies, privately owned businesses, and large multinational organisations and reputable kitchens both in New Zealand and internationally. Mark brings 35 years industry experience to the role and has a proven track record in hospitality operations and management.  

Mark Wylie, Chief Executive Officer

Gráinne joins the Montana Group board with a wealth of knowledge from a background in food and hospitality, senior leadership, HR and risk, and corporate governance. She holds and has held a number of executive roles including stints at McDonald’s and SkyCity and has held a range of Directorships across the tourism and the private sectors.

Gráinne Troute, Board Chair

Kirsty is a professional director and commercial adviser who has held a range of roles in corporate finance, banking, law, and regulation. She is a member of the board of Public Trust, an independent director of NZHL, Salt Funds, Toitū Envirocare and New Plymouth PIF Guardians. She is also a member of the NZ Markets Disciplinary Tribunal and has several other governance roles.

Kirsty Campbell, Director

Brett also has broad experience in commercial and senior management roles in wholesale and retail sectors. He has sat on a range of boards and trusts and has first-hand knowledge of manufacturing, procurement, and supply chain processes.

Brett Tucker, Director

Executive Leadership Team

Lizzi was appointed Chief Operations Officer (COO) for Montana Group in January 2024. Lizzi has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and catering industry, notably leading the Urban Gourmet Team since 2016. As COO, Lizzi will play a pivotal role in shaping and optimising our operational strategies to ensure continued success and growth across the Group. As part of this role, Lizzi leads our operational teams across Urban Gourmet, Montana Food and Events and our Education and Retail divisions in Auckland and Waikato. 

Lizzi Pearson, Chief Operations Officer

Nic Wetere, Chief Financial Officer

Nic joined Montana Group as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in September 2023. A qualified accountant and an experienced CEO and CFO, Nic brings a wealth of experience, expertise and a proven track record in finance and strategic leadership to the Group.

As part of her role with Montana Group, Nic is overseeing all aspects of the Finance, IT and Procurement functions of the business.

Sacha Thomson, Chief People and Communications Officer

Sacha was appointed Chief People and Communications Officer (CPCO) in January 2024. Leading both our People and Culture and Brand and Communications teams, Sacha plays a pivotal role in aligning our people strategies with our organisational goals and enhancing our communication both internally and externally. 

Sacha has 15 years of experience working in the Human Resources and Employment Relations field and has worked across multiple industries including Dairy, Manufacturing and Hospitality. Sacha has a wealth of experience working with businesses and their people needs.