
Anna Calver
Chief Economic and Engagement Officer
Wellington City Council
Anna is a creative leader, storyteller, connector and unofficial chief Wellington cheerleader. With a distinguished career in marketing, communications and economic development, Anna has led high-impact projects and campaigns for iconic brands in numerous industries including technology, tourism, finance, the arts and consumer goods.
Since moving to Pōneke 15 years ago, Anna has worked with organisations that contribute to the economic and cultural wellbeing of Wellington, from start-ups to major events. Prior to working at Wellington City Council, Anna led the marketing team at WellingtonNZ, where she implemented a more strategic and impactful way of working, with marketing activity proven to directly attribute an incremental $420M in visitor spend to the economy across a three-year period.
At the Council, Anna’s team is responsible for oversight of Council Controlled Organisations (Sky Stadium, Zealandia, Wellington Zoo, Experience Wellington, the Wellington Cable Car, WellingtonNZ and the Basin Reserve), Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre, Communications, Engagement, International Relations, Economic Wellbeing and City Revitalisation, and stakeholder relations.
Anna’s leadership style is centred around collaboration, working with teams and partners on delivering shared outcomes, through a commitment to action, innovation and measurable results. When not at mahi, Anna enjoys spending time with her whānau, walking Wellington’s many trails (even in the wind), reading, cooking and enjoying the many outstanding hospitality and cultural offerings the city has to offer.