Larna Findlay
Big-picture strategy, practical execution, and strong stakeholder engagement, that’s where I do my best work.
I’m known for turning big ideas into practical strategies that stick, driving growth, and creating meaningful impact.
I help organisations clarify their direction, shape impactful strategies, and bring them to life through thoughtful planning and authentic engagement. Whether navigating complex governance, strengthening brand connection, or building cyber resilience, I’m trusted to lead independently and deliver lasting results.
My approach is strategic, grounded, and relational, because meaningful change happens when strategy meets trust and action.
Areas of expertise:
Strategic advisory – Helping businesses make smart decisions and drive sustainable growth.
Brand messaging & positioning – Crafting compelling narratives that connect and inspire.
Engagement – Building trust and influence with key audiences.
Cyber engagement & training – Helping New Zealanders be safer online by making digital safety and security simple.
Problem-solving & execution – Turning complex challenges into clear, practical solutions.
Trusted by:
Why choose Savvy?
At Savvy Consultants, we don’t just deliver plans:
We build trust, clarity, and momentum. Our work is grounded in purpose, shaped by experience, and designed to uplift organisations and communities alike.
Strategic and human: We blend sharp thinking with empathy, ensuring people remain at the centre of every solution.
Trusted across sectors: From financial to government to for purpose organisations, we’ve helped iconic brands and grassroots changemakers alike.
What clients say about me:
I am pleased to provide this reference for Larna Findlay, who has worked as the Interim General Manager with the New Zealand Beverage Council (NZBC) from November 2025 to June 2026. During this period, Larna has made a significant impact, particularly in strengthening our communications and elevating the overall professionalism of the organisation. Larna brought strong leadership capability, clarity, structure and consistency to our external communications, which immediately lifted the profile of the NZBC. Larna also did an outstanding job of rapidly developing a comprehensive plan to relaunch the New Zealand Beverage Awards, which had not been held for over 10 years. Through her initiative, strategic thinking, and attention to detail, she has established strong foundations and processes that position the awards for long term success and sustainability in the years ahead for the NZBC. I would highly recommend Larna for any role requiring strong communication expertise, leadership capability, and a commitment to organisational excellence. She would be a valuable asset to any team or organisation. Sam Borgfeldt, Co-Chair New Zealand Beverage Council
We were looking for someone to undertake the development of a marketing plan for TUANZ – something we hadn’t formally done previously. Our sense was we wanted a plan that gave shape and direction to our activity this year. We chose Larna to work with us on this project for her professional skills in this space as well as her understanding of issues such as safety online and digital equity.
Larna fitted into the team incredibly well and worked alongside us during that time. She challenged us and provided an amazing range of opportunities and well thought out strategies for us.
We’ve moved on to implementing the plan and couldn’t be happier with the mahi she did for us.
Craig Young, CEO TUANZ (CAE and MInstD)
“I’ve worked alongside Larna on a couple of complex, multi-stage, engagements. These engagements have incorporated strategic elements that have had implications across a diverse stakeholder group based within New Zealand and overseas. The scope of the work required not only deep subject matter expertise but also a nuanced understanding of the New Zealand landscape and where tangible, meaningful, long-term impact(s) could be achieved.
In the most recent engagement Larna was engaged based on her exceptional track record of success in strategic design and implementation, as well as her extensive cross-sector knowledge and networks. Larna’s reputation for delivering meaningful outcomes with integrity and independence gave me confidence from the outset. I knew the assignment demanded someone I could trust to operate with minimal oversight, and Larna consistently demonstrated both self-direction and accountability throughout the process.
A core strength of Larna’s is her ability to listen deeply and engage authentically with a wide range of stakeholders. Her personable, approachable style allowed them to quickly build trust and draw out valuable insights. Larna is not only strategic in thought, but also relational in approach — which are two essential traits I believe.
The final outcomes in both engagements we have worked on exceeded expectations, and in the most recent one already proven invaluable in advancing key priorities. More importantly, it has opened doors and created momentum that positions us well for future success. If the opportunity to work with Larna again were to arise, I would not hesitate!”
Cyber Engagement Strategy, Leading NZ Bank