The people behind the power

Neil Brumfit

Chief Executive Officer

Neil brings over 30 years of energy industry experience, combining hands-on technical knowledge with senior commercial acumen. A trade-certified industrial electrician who went on to complete a Bachelor of Business in Accounting and Finance, Neil is equally at home in the boardroom and on site - a rare combination in the energy sector.

After managing energy supply contracts for major commercial and industrial clients across New Zealand's retail energy sector, Neil spent the last decade building an independent energy business from the ground up. His conviction is straightforward: independent retailers can challenge the status quo and deliver a wholesale and retail experience that genuinely works for customers.

His drive and passion for innovation have been the engine behind the business's growth - and his dual expertise means he can help customers at every level understand and reduce their energy costs.

Mike Shatford

Managing Director

Mike leads Maru Energy with a people-first philosophy shaped by more than 30 years working alongside communities, iwi, government, and organisations navigating meaningful change. From the New Zealand Defence Force to senior leadership roles in regional regeneration, he has built a reputation for bringing teams together and turning strategy into real-world delivery.

An experienced executive coach, facilitator, and mentor, Mike is known for his calm leadership style and ability to bring clarity to complex situations. His work supporting climate-focused and regenerative initiatives has deepened his commitment to an energy future for Aotearoa that is sustainable, collaborative, and grounded in trust.

Whether partnering with iwi on shared ambitions, leading green energy programmes, or supporting whānau and communities, Mike ensures that Maru Energy does more than keep the lights on - it stands alongside people and contributes to a stronger, more resilient future.

Johnathan Chen

Director

Johnathan is an astute executive / entrepreneur with multi-disciplined skillsets. With his professional qualification and experiences spanning engineering and law, he brings a proven track record in international business, capital raising, and entrepreneurship across the export, trading, property, and innovation sectors.

Johnathan is the Founder of MTM Group which is a private equity investment house with substantial investments in property and land development, strategic investments in entertainment, construction procurement operations and green energy projects. In particular he is also a director of Trizetto Group Holdings, a strategic JV between MTM Group and Hong Kong Hang Yue Group.

A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, registered Patent Attorney in New Zealand and Australia, and holder of a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours), Johnathan combines technical depth with commercial acuity. He serves on the board of the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce.

With the breadth of experience across disciplines, industries and cultures through his previous roles such as the Business Strategy Director of Remarkables Park Group and the Head of Asia Division at James & Wells, Johnathan is often called upon for strategic co-investment and is a trusted governor of significant investments in New Zealand. This in turn strengthens Maru Energy's strategic direction and supports the company's long term growth ambitions.

James Hennessy

Director

James brings a wealth of financial expertise and principled leadership to Maru Energy, drawing from a distinguished career in public sector accounting where he rose to Partner level before retiring. With a Bachelor of Commerce and Diploma in Technology, he has honed his skills in strategic financial management, governance, and ethical decision-making across complex organisational landscapes.

James now oversees his Family Office activities, ensuring prudent stewardship of assets while dedicating significant pro bono time as Commercial Advisor and Director to several Iwi-based charitable organisations. This commitment reflects his passion for supporting community-driven initiatives that foster sustainable growth and cultural preservation. His business acumen and proven track record in advisory roles equip him to guide Maru Energy with sound fiscal oversight, helping build a resilient, customer-focused enterprise grounded in trust and long-term viability.

Ashton Chan

Director

Ashton Chan brings strategic financial leadership and commercial expertise to Maru's governance and operations. Based in New Zealand, he is committed to delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to Kiwi customers.

Ashton is also a Director at Trizetto Group Holdings, which is an extended arm of Hang Yue Investment Holding, where he bridges international investment capabilities with Maru Energy's growth and potential vertical integration strategies, ensuring long-term value for customers and stakeholders.

Drawing on extensive experience in building material and product procurement, he brings specialised expertise in supply chain management and cost-efficient sourcing to the energy sector, supporting the sourcing of quality materials at competitive prices for greater efficiency and reliability.

Fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, Ashton fosters strong relationships with suppliers and partners across Asia, connecting Maru Energy to international sourcing opportunities. His approach to business is rooted in integrity, foresight, and adaptability, reflecting his commitment to driving value for customers, partners, and the New Zealand communities Maru Energy supports.