Kaiwhakahaere Whakapakihi—Commercialisation Manager
Making his way from an Analyst to Commercialisation Manager, Mick has a broad understanding of the commercialisation process and market opportunities across various areas. Mick is responsible for engaging with researchers to help progress their ideas and connect academics with institutions and various national and international networks.
Born in Christchurch, Mick studied at the University of Otago where he gained a BSc in Forensic Chemistry, and a postgraduate diploma in Pharmacology. He subsequently moved to Wellington to work for BioGro NZ—the country’s largest certifier of organic produce and products—where he managed the team responsible for certifying cosmetics, wine and food for three years.
Mick joined Wellington UniVentures in September 2019 and is now enjoying being involved in thethe commercialisation process, where he can help the University’s researchers to determine the commercial potential of their inventions.