OUR PEOPLE Conor McLean

Senior Advisor

PROFESSIONAL OVERVIEW

An engaged and enquiring mind, Conor enjoys learning new subject matter, with experience spanning from science-based intellectual property to regional economic development across New Zealand.

Prior to joining Rationale, Conor worked as an investment analyst for Kānoa (Ministry of Business Innovation & Employment), supporting the evaluation and development several projects that aimed at improving economic growth for the Taranaki and Bay of Plenty regions. This included a wide range of proposals across a range of sectors, including horticulture, industrial and infrastructure.

Conor has also worked in a university commercialisation office, evaluating the commercial viability of new research and potential intellectual property from a variety bioscience, engineering or design projects. During his time in this role, he also managed several investment projects, Callaghan Innovation grants and administered the PreSeed Accelerating Fund targeting research commercialisation. A supporter of entrepreneurship, Conor also developed and implemented a university student enterprise programme and investment fund, aimed at encouraging new students to start their own businesses.

A natural team player, Conor brings a blend of skills and experience in fund/portfolio management, client relationships, investment evaluation and project management.

PERSONAL OVERVIEW

Conor was born and raised in Manawatū & Tararua, growing up in Woodville, before moving to Palmerston North. His interest in both the arts and sport shaped his youth and university experience.

An avid sportsman, Conor enjoys all forms of sports and physical activity and has tried almost everything once. Dedicating more time an effort into rugby in recent years, he played representative level for Manawatū and New Zealand Universities. Though now ‘semi-retired’ from rugby, he’s still committed to being active and can often be found either training in the gym or engaging in social sports like tennis and touch rugby.

Now living in Wellington, when he is not catching up with his friends or out at the gym, as a fried chicken lover you can often find him trying out one of the many fine fried chicken establishments located in the capital.