Resignation and Appointment of Independent Directors

30 October 2024
NZX Limited
WELLINGTON

Resignation and Appointment of Independent Directors
Being AI Limited (NZX : BAI) advises that effective immediately, two of its independent directors
have resigned and have been replaced by the appointment of two new independent directors.
Being AI would like to thank Roger Gower and Joe Jensen, who have both made significant
contributions during their tenure as independent directors. We extend our gratitude for their
dedication and service.
Being AI is pleased to announce the appointment of two new independent directors, Andy Higgs
and Brett O'Riley.
In order to take up the role of Independent Director of Being AI, Brett O’Riley has become non-
executive chair of Manawaroa Education LP, a limited partnership owned by Being AI.
These changes and appointments come in support of traction with deep technology initiatives
outlined by Group CEO David McDonald at Being AI’s AGM in September.
Andy Higgs, Independent Director, Being AI
Andy Higgs is renowned for expertise in strategic leadership and innovation, particularly within
the related domains of digital identity, AI strategy and the open metaverse.
Andy is a creative and outcome-focused leader with a highly developed commercial skill set and
an entrepreneurial approach. Recognised as an astute operator who understands the nuances of
complex businesses and various market sectors, he has demonstrated a flair for identifying and
securing sustainable business and latent value creation opportunities.
Andy has founded and invested in media, distribution and technology businesses having achieved
several meaningful exits for shareholders. At Futureverse Corporation (previously Centrality) he
has assisted with the commercialisation of a US$500M plus technology venture portfolio.
In parallel Andy has worked with the NZ Tech Alliance, DIA, Callaghan Innovation and MBIE to
develop transformational policy frameworks, legislation and programmes including the Digital
Identity Trust Framework, Consumer Data Right, Digital Strategy and the Future for Business in
Aotearoa NZ.
Andy has served on the CCO Boards for ATEED and Rotorua Economic Development (RED). He was
elected Chairman for the NZ Hot Water Association and has chaired various private companies
including CentraPass, Wayver and Preserve Piha.
Andy’s formative years were spent in advisory and commercial leadership roles with Deloitte
Consulting, Parex Industries (acquired by Emerson – NYSE-EMR) and MTV Networks Europe a
subsidiary of Viacom (NASDAQ-VIAC).

As co-founder of Accelerate Sport (later acquired by sport management company CSM Sport and
Entertainment) he sold and developed commercial rights in the world of sport and introduced
long-term sponsors to the game of rugby.
Brett O’Riley, Independent Director, Being AI
Brett O’Riley brings extensive experience in management and compliance to his new role with
Being AI, with a proven track record in driving transformative initiatives.
Brett is an experienced international business leader and director. He has held several major CEO
roles in the private and public sector in technology, infrastructure, innovation, business services,
and economic development.
Brett is currently a member of the APEC Business Advisory Council where he leads the Climate
Change activity, and has also been involved with digital technology policy issues including AI. Brett
is also involved in several other international focused roles looking to grow innovation-based
trade and investment with China and India.
Brett is a board member in New Zealand of the Environmental Protection Agency. He is also a
board member of GSD Corporation, an advisory firm involved in Green Energy, Infrastructure and
Transport project work.
Brett is a former board member of the NZ Film Commission, Business New Zealand, Manaiakalani
Education Trust, and Dotterel Technologies. Before that he held several other board and
governance roles involving technology and telecommunications companies, and government
entities.
Brett is also an international sports governor with World Bowls and has been extensively involved
in other sports governance roles.
Our focus on the marketplace for AI agents
The appointments of Andy Higgs and Brett O’Riley reflect Being AI's commitment to AI-driven
technology development and transformation - establishing a Board dedicated to advancing Being
AI’s agentic marketplace strategy.
We believe that the expertise and vision of our new directors will be instrumental in the success
of this journey. Please join us in welcoming Andy Higgs and Brett O'Riley to our board.
The new board will meet to elect or appoint a new chair in due course.
For more information contact:
David McDonald
Group CEO
Being AI Limited
Mobile: +64 27 239 7000
Email: david@beingai.group
Website: beingai.group
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beingaigroup