Events

Public Fundraising Symposium: Getting it Right (Regulation & Best Practice)

Public Fundraising Symposium 2024

We are thrilled to announce that the Public Fundraising Symposium is back for another exciting edition in 2024! 

Join us as we bring together top experts from various fields including fundraising, compliance, data protection, marketing, law, finance, and human resources.

Stay ahead of the regulatory landscape.

At the Public Fundraising Symposium, you'll gain a comprehensive overview of the ever-changing regulatory landscape. Our expert speakers will share their insights on best practices for public fundraising, ensuring your organisation remains compliant while achieving outstanding results.

WHERE: Sudima Hotel, Auckland Airport
WHEN: Thursday, 30th May 2024
FORMAT: One-day event

  • 8 am – Registrations - Networking - Coffee & Croissants
  • 10 am – Symposium Starts - Workshops and Discussions
  • 5-7 pm - Face-to-Face Fundraiser of the Year Awards

What Will We Cover? 

At this symposium, we delve into the core principles that drive successful public fundraising.

Check out the programme and session speakers below.

1. Benchmarking and data analysis
Benchmarking and data analysis take centre stage, offering insights on comparing your organisation's performance with industry standards to guide informed decisions and ensure continuous improvement.

2. Deep dive into what makes a great monthly giving programme successful
Together we will explore what makes monthly giving programmes successful, from the supporter journey communications donation processes, and how to cultivate sustained donor engagement.

3. Leadership: Lessons learnt as a fundraiser
Drawing from real-world experiences, we uncover invaluable leadership lessons learned in the dynamic world of fundraising, highlighting the significance of relationship-building, adaptability, impactful storytelling, and team empowerment.

4. How to stay focused on your fundraising

Discover practical strategies on how to maintain focus in fundraising efforts, including goal setting, and the prioritisation of high-impact activities.

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to learn, connect, and elevate your public fundraising efforts. Stay tuned for more updates on speakers, sessions, and registration details!

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY

Programme Sessions

Opening Plenary: Benchmarking Data

Fi McPhee Head of Insights from The Benchmarking Project, will share the latest on the top line trends in key regular giving metrics based on data from leading New Zealand charities.

More info below

Lessons Learnt as a F2F Fundraiser

Chris Taylor (Mental Health Foundation) shares lessons learnt as a F2F fundraiser.

More info below

Does quality come from good people or good systems?

Learn more about how to create quality fundraising - is it good people or good systems? Join us for an insightful session with Camilla Bell, a fundraising expert with a decade-long journey, starting as a tele fundraiser at Greenpeace Aotearoa. 

    More info below

    From Creative to Calling

    Hannah Watson-Frank takes us on a deep dive into Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand's Digital Lead Programme

    More info below

    Creating a brand for your monthly giving program

    Recruiting monthly givers can be tough and costly, so keeping them on board is crucial to long-term sustainability. The good news is, it doesn't have to be complicated.

    More info below

    Dirty Data – What is it really costing you?

    Dear “Friend”, we have all seen it.

    Leading an interactive discussion with a deep dive into your data challenges, Mark will explore the true cost of dirty data for your organisation. From missed opportunities to poor decision-making and suboptimal outcomes, the impact will be uncovered.

    More info below

    Engaging senior management and board members

    Securing long-term investment and support from senior management and board members is essential for the success and sustainability of any fundraising program. Explore strategies and best practices for effectively engaging senior leadership in fundraising initiatives. 

    More info below

    Key concepts and principles of Data Compliance

    Explore key concepts of Data Governance and best practices in line with relevant legislations and principles.

    More info below

    Ethical Data: Navigating user rights and privacy responsibility

    Building on the key concepts, learn how to uphold ethical standards when it comes to big data analytics, AI and machine learning and how to incorporate algorithmic accountability.

    More info below

    More sessions coming soon....

    Opening Plenary
    Top Trends and Data Insights

    Opening Plenary - The Benchmarking Project | Top Trends and Data Insights

    Fi McPhee Head of Insights from The Benchmarking Project, will share the latest on the top line trends in key regular giving metrics based on data from leading New Zealand charities.

    Session Speaker:

    Fi McPhee

    Lessons Learnt
    As a Face-to-Face Fundraiser

    Lessons Learnt – As a Face-to-Face Fundraiser

    In this immersive workshop, Chris Taylor, Head of Fundraising at The Mental Health Foundation, shares invaluable lessons from 14 years as a face-to-face fundraiser.

    Chris's journey, from a fundraiser to a senior leader, including his role as Deputy Chair of the PFRA board, brings a wealth of insights and experiences to the table.

    In this interactive session, Chris will draw on his extensive career and mentorship experiences to inspire participants to reflect, learn, and craft personalised action plans for the year ahead. Dive deep into group discussions, individual reflections, and practical planning exercises to turn symposium takeaways into tangible steps forward.

    Session Speaker:

    Chris Taylor | Mental Health Foundation

    From Creative to Calling
    A Deep Dive into Amnesty's Digital Lead Programme

    From Creative to Calling | A Deep Dive into Amnesty’s Digital Lead Programme

    In this transformative session: "From Creative to Calling - A Deep Dive into Amnesty’s Digital Lead Programme".

    Hannah Watson-Frank (she/her), is one of the brilliant minds behind Amnesty's digital fundraising success! As a digital maven, Hannah has fueled positive change, playing a key role in last year's record-breaking fundraising at Amnesty.

    In this session, we will explore the dynamic world of digital platforms and discover the power they hold in creating a lasting impact. Hannah, a data-driven decision maker, is set to unravel the secrets behind her successful campaigns, blending experimentation and creativity.

    Session Speaker:

    Hannah Watson-Frank | Amnesty International Aotearoa

    Quality Fundraising
    Does quality come from good people or good systems?

    Quality Fundraising | Does quality come from good people or good systems?

    Learn more about how to create quality fundraising - is it good people or good systems?

    Join us for an insightful session with Camilla Bell, a fundraising expert with a decade-long journey, starting as a tele fundraiser at Greenpeace Aotearoa. Camilla's expertise in individual giving and philanthropy has shaped her passion for fundraising, driven by the power of people, captivating stories, and a collective ambition to spark creativity and improvement.

    In this session, Camilla will guide us through finding the balance between recruiting the right people and implementing effective systems that foster quality fundraising.

      Session Speaker:

      Camilla Bell | Hato Hone St John

      Dirty Data
      What is it really costing you?

      Dear “Friend”, we have all seen it.

      Leading an interactive discussion with a deep dive into your data challenges, Mark will explore the true cost of dirty data for your organisation. From missed opportunities to poor decision-making and suboptimal outcomes, the impact will be uncovered.

      You will take away ideas and tools to help you implement and manage data capture and data hygiene standards.

      The session will focus on attendees' specific data challenges to provide greater value, exploring the real costs of dirty data. We will discuss ideas, tools, and solutions available to help while addressing ongoing data hygiene management.

      Session Speaker

      Mark Newell | Datam

      Creative that builds brand and impact
      How to develop a monthly giving programme

      Recruiting monthly givers can be tough and costly, so keeping them on board is crucial to long-term sustainability.

      The key is to make your monthly donors feel like they are part of a tribe. The good news is, it doesn't have to be complicated.

      In this session, you will learn how three monthly giving programs at three very different organisations are using compelling creative to build a loyal following, increase retention, and tell a consistent and engaging story of impact.

      We'll explore how to develop your monthly giving messaging to showcase impact, build a donor journey for maximum retention, and approach retention from a creative standpoint.

      Session Speaker:

      Dominique Antarakis – CEO | Change&Co

      Securing long-term investment
      How to engage senior management & boards

      In the dynamic landscape of fundraising, securing long-term investment and support from senior management and board members is essential for the success and sustainability of any fundraising program. This symposium session aims to explore strategies and best practices for effectively engaging senior leadership in fundraising efforts and fostering a culture of fundraising within your organisation.

      Key Points to be covered:

      1. Setting the Foundation: Establishing a Culture of Fundraising

      • The importance of leadership buy-in and investment in fundraising initiatives
      • Aligning fundraising goals with the organisation's mission and vision

      2. Engaging Senior Management:

      • Communicating the importance of fundraising to senior leaders
      • Strategies for securing senior management support and investment

      3. Building Long-Term Commitment:

      • Developing a strategic fundraising plan with clear goals and objectives
      • Monitoring and evaluating fundraising outcomes to demonstrate impact

      By sharing insights, experiences, and practical tips, this symposium session aims to empower fundraisers, nonprofit leaders, and board members to foster a collaborative and supportive environment that drives long-term fundraising success. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to strengthen their organisations' fundraising efforts and secure sustainable resources for their missions.

      Session Speaker:

      Greg Millar - National Fundraising Manager | IHC

      Key Concepts of Data Compliance
      Empowering Organisations for today and tomorrow.

      In this session, we will cover key concepts of Data Governance implementation and highlight best practices for organisations. We'll discuss the Privacy Act 2020 and its compliance requirements, as well as the implications of the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 on data protection. Additionally, we'll explore international compliance standards like GDPR. Join us for an informative session on implementing Data Governance best practices in line with relevant legislations and principles.

      Session Speaker:

      Kris Morrison | Parry Field Lawyers

      Ethical Data
      Navigating User Rights and Privacy Responsibility

      When it comes to managing consent, user rights, and ethical data usage in the digital landscape, organisations must adhere to best practices and ethical considerations. Implementing robust consent mechanisms is crucial to ensure that individuals have control over their personal data and how it is utilized. In this session, we’ll build on the key concepts, and learn about how to facilitate individual rights under privacy legislation while upholding ethical standards. We’ll look at key ethical considerations in big data analytics including ensuring data accuracy, protecting individuals' privacy, and preventing discrimination based on sensitive information, AI and Machine learning and how to incorporate algorithmic accountability.

      Session Speaker:

      Kris Morrison | Parry Field Lawyers

      Programme Speakers

      We are delighted to introduce our amazing speakers for this event! Our panel of experts come from a variety of backgrounds, including fundraising, law, data insights and more. This is an incredible opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and expertise from some of the best in their respective fields. Don't miss this unique chance to learn from the best!

      Fiona McPhee | The Benchmarking Project

      Co-Founder and Director of Insights, The Benchmarking Project

      Having led Australia & New Zealand’s largest fundraising benchmarking and analytics programs for over 15 years, Fiona’s insight into the fundraising market is unparalleled. Having started as an on-the-tools fundraiser with WWF-Australia Fiona has spent the last 24 years with non-profits from around the globe across fundraising, organisational culture and strategic planning, and program implementation.

      As a Director of The Benchmarking Project and Director of global consultancy Revolutionise, Fi combines her love for analytics and insights and her facilitation and consulting skills to drive culture change, strategic development and execution of strategic plans and campaigns with fundraising boards, leaders and teams.

      Speaker Session: 

      The Benchmarking Project:

      Hot off the press the latest real data on regular giving, donor retention, acquisition and ROI from Australia & New Zealand

      Chris Taylor | The Mental Health Foundation

      Chris Taylor has been a member of the PFRA board for 6 years, 3 years as Chair and currently as Deputy Chair. His career began as a face-to-face fundraiser 14 years ago in the UK and has led him to his current role as the Head of Fundraising at The Mental Health Foundation.

      His experience working in the face-to-face industry from the role of a fundraiser, to leading and managing teams and programmes for agencies and charities in-house and working as an International Face-to-Face Consultant for Oxfam International has given him the unique opportunity to see the industry from all sides and across multiple countries.

      Speaking Session:

      Lessons Learnt | As a Face-to-Face Fundraiser

      Hannah Watson-Frank | Amnesty International Aotearoa NZ

      From Creative to Calling | A Deep Dive into Amnesty’s Digital Lead Programme

      Hannah Watson-Frank (she/her) is a digital maven with a passion for creating positive change in the world. Hannah heads the successful digital fundraising programme at Amnesty International and was part of raising the most the organisation has raised in its 60 year history last year.

      Hannah is passionate about the power and possibilities that digital platforms have. She is data-driven decision maker that is always bring experimentation and creativity to her campaigns. The foundation of Hannah’s approach is to focus on fostering authentic connections with different audiences by creating content that speaks to feels genuine, is responsive to current trends & events and adds value to their lives.

      In this session, we will explore the dynamic world of digital platforms and discover the power they hold in creating a lasting impact.

      Speaking Session:

      From Creative to Calling | A Deep Dive into Amnesty’s Digital Lead Programme

      Camilla Bell | Hato Hone St John

      Camilla Bell started her fundraising career learning the ropes as a tele fundraiser at Greenpeace Aotearoa. In the decade since, she's developed her fundraising expertise and specialises in individual giving and philanthropy. She loves fundraising because of the people, stories, and the shared ambition to get creative and make it better.

      In this session, Camilla will guide us through finding the balance between recruiting the right people and implementing effective systems that foster quality fundraising.

      Speaking Session:

      Does quality come from good people or good systems?

      Mark Newell | Direct Marketing Consultant, Datam

      Driving Direct Marketing innovation one envelope at a time.

      Speaking Session:

      Dirty Data. What is it really costing you?

      Dominique Antarakis – CEO | Change&Co

      Dominique began as a freelance writer for charity clients in 2003, and was instantly hooked. 

      Drawing on her background first as a finance and business journalist and then agency copywriter to craft compelling copy on complex topics, Dominique’s reputation as a master storyteller quickly grew and she found herself working with NFP clients all over the world. 

      As founder and CEO of Change&Co, Dominique oversees a team of thinkers, change agents and communicators helping ethical and for-purpose organisations do good, better. She is a sought-after presenter who trains teams in effective communication around the world.

      Speaking Session:

      Creative that builds brand and impact

      Greg Millar

      Greg has held fundraising management roles for the past 33 years, 10 in global leadership positions with UNICEF based in Geneva and UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency) in Washington DC and Rome. He is currently the National Fundraising Manager at IHC New Zealand, a role he held 18 years ago. For the past 23 years, Greg has seen and closely measured the huge and positive impact of monthly giving and face-to-face fundraising and developed impactful, effective and sustainable fundraising programmes.

      Speaking Session:

      How to engage senior management & boards

      Kris Morrison

      I have 20+ years of legal experience specialising in commercial activities including data governance, and I have successfully advised numerous businesses in New Zealand on compliance with data protection regulations. My expertise includes a deep understanding of the Privacy Act 2020 and international privacy standards, enabling me to provide practical, actionable advice to businesses of all sizes.

      Speaking Sessions:

      Key Concepts of Data Compliance: Empowering organisations for today and tomorrow

      Ethical Data: Navigating User Rights and Privacy Responsibility

      Event Infomation
      Sudima Auckland Airport
      Accommodation

      Sudima Auckland Airport is an award-winning 4.5-star hotel set in a quiet location just 2.5kms from New Zealand’s main airport. As the country’s first Toitū carbon zero certified hotel it exemplifies the best in sustainable architecture and systems, along with world-class features, facilities and services.

      Rooms are subject to availability, so book now. Enjoy a comfortable stay in an amazing location complete with great amenities!

      Sudima Auckland Airport
      Getting there

      The Yellow Bus

      Sudima Auckland Airport  makes transport to and from the airport convenient. Just book your Yellow Bus ticket here and you'll be good to go!

      The Yellow Bus operates independently as a transfer service for the local hotels in the area and believe it or not with Auckland's traffic it can be faster than waiting to be picked up. Plus it will drop you off right at our doorstep.

      Please note: this is a service operating independently from Sudima Auckland Airport and booking a ticket online is the best way to catch a ride with the yellow bus.

      Alternatively, you can catch a local taxi which is available right outside the terminal doors.

      Parking

      Sudima Auckland Airport makes parking for event attendees so much easier with their free parking service. You can drive in and be sure to find a spot wherever you like.

      Sponsorship Opportunities

      If your organisation is committed to promoting best practices and would like the chance to sponsor this event, we encourage you to contact us today. 

      We value partnerships with organisations that share our vision for a thriving charitable sector, funded by long-term sustainable fundraising.

      We provide a range of sponsorship opportunities tailored to meet the specific goals and budget of your organisation. These opportunities include branding, speaking engagements, and much more. 

      Contact us today to find out more.