TSNZ strengthens delivery leadership with GM Deployment appointment
Steve Christman, GM Deployment
TSNZ strengthens delivery leadership with General Manager Deployment appointment
Tait Systems New Zealand (TSNZ) has appointed Steven Christman as General Manager Deployment, reinforcing its delivery leadership as work continues on the Public Safety Network (PSN) Land Mobile Radio (LMR) programme.
The role is focused on strengthening coordination, planning and execution across deployment activity, ensuring the programme is delivered in a structured and sustainable way.
Penny Hoogerwerf, Tait Systems NZ Interim Chief Executive, said the appointment reflects TSNZ’s continued focus on delivery performance and programme maturity.
“This is a critical phase of the programme, and having the right leadership in place is essential to ensuring we deliver safely, effectively and to the standard required,” she said.
“Steven brings strong experience in complex infrastructure delivery and will play an important role in aligning teams, strengthening delivery discipline and supporting a clear path forward.”
The General Manager Deployment will lead the planning and delivery of deployment activity across regions, working closely with delivery partners and Next Generation Critical Communications (NGCC), which will become SafetyNet Critical Communications from 1 July.
The appointment is part of a broader focus on ensuring the programme is well-positioned to deliver a modern, resilient communications network for New Zealand’s emergency services.
Ms Hoogerwerf said they were focused on building on the work already underway.
“There is a strong foundation in place, and a clear opportunity to bring greater consistency, alignment and momentum to delivery,” she added. “This programme is critical to supporting frontline responders, and my focus will be on ensuring we have the right structures and approach in place to deliver with confidence.”
The PSN LMR network will provide emergency services with enhanced coverage, resilience and interoperability, supporting response efforts across Aotearoa.
Media contact:
Laura Wilmot laura.wilmot@taitsystems.nz
Bio
Steve is an experienced telecommunications leader with more than 30 years in the industry, specialising in mobile networks and radio access technologies. Based in Auckland, he has held senior leadership roles across major organisations including 2degrees, Alcatel-Lucent, Telecom New Zealand, and Ericsson.
Steve brings deep expertise in network strategy, optimisation, and large-scale programme delivery, with a strong track record of leading high-performing teams and delivering complex infrastructure initiatives. Known for balancing big-picture thinking with attention to detail, he is passionate about driving innovation and building resilient, future-ready communications networks.