The Magazine Publishers Association (MPA) has announced the appointment of Are Media New Zealand general manager Stuart Dick as its new chair. This follows the completion of Nick Burrowes’ term. Burrowes will continue to contribute his expertise as a member of the MPA Board.
Dick’s appointment also comes with the news that Are Media, the country’s biggest magazine publisher, is rejoining the association. He told NZ Herald that the timing “felt right”.
“To use our collective energy and resources to capitalise on some of the good news stories out there – readership growth, digital expansion, advertising success.”
Strength and support
Burrowes has been a driving force behind the MPA’s strategic direction, bringing a deep understanding of the media landscape to his role.
His leadership helped steer the association through a period of rapid change, strengthening its advocacy and supporting publishers in both print and digital formats.
The MPA acknowledged Burrowes for his service during his term as Chair and noted that he will continue to contribute as a member of the board.
Stepping into the role of Chair, Dick is a media executive with more than 20 years of experience in publishing, marketing, and digital innovation.
Currently serving as general manager of Are Media New Zealand, Dick has overseen the revitalisation of several major magazine brands and driven growth across both print and digital platforms, with his leadership associated with notable increases in audience engagement and commercial performance.
Renewed optimism
Dick’s appointment comes at a time of renewed optimism and momentum for New Zealand’s magazine sector, with readership rising and digital engagement reaching new heights. Dick, along with the reappointed and new board members bring a forward-looking vision to the MPA, focused on empowering local publishers to thrive in a multi-platform world.
Dick says: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Chair at such a pivotal moment for our industry.
“With over 2.5 million magazine readers in New Zealand, magazines continue to be a trusted and influential medium in New Zealand, and I’m excited to work with our members to champion their success – whether in print, online, or through emerging formats. Together, we’ll build on the strong foundations formed by Nick and the board to ensure magazine media remains vibrant, relevant and commercially strong.”
The MPA stated that it expects that the new and continuing leadership group will inject fresh energy into its ongoing mission to support and promote New Zealand’s magazine publishers.
