Our People

Liz McKenzie (Industry Training/Tertiary)

Liz has been involved in the Tertiary and Industry Training sectors to management level for over 10 years.  She has experience working within the ITP (Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics) and PTE (Private Training Establishment) environments, across a wide range of subject areas.

In recent years, Liz has worked successfully for NZQA as a Framework Registration Evaluator - which means she has high-level understanding of NZQA's DAS (Directory of Assessment Standards) and NZQF (New Zealand Qualifications Framework) and related Quality Assurance systems.

Currently, Liz undertakes contract work for NZQA as an Analyst within the Service Delivery section of the Quality Assurance Division.

Liz has an excellent eye for detail as well as an appreciation of strategic-level implications.  She works to achieve high quality standards at all times, and has a proven record of successful project management and liaison with experts from a wide range of industries.

As well as her work with Cooper McKenzie Limited, Liz is a Director of Otago Language Experience, a company that provides English Language Study Tours for international, primary-aged children.  Otago Language Experience also offers Professional Development Training for Teacher Aides working with English Language Learners within New Zealand schools.

John McKenzie (Primary and Secondary)

John has over 25 years of experience in New Zealand education.

Originally a secondary school teacher, John has worked in Area Schools to management level, and has held several Primary Principal positions.

Currently, John is Principal of a Normal Primary School in Dunedin, and is the Normals Schools' representative on the NZEI Principals' Council.  He is involved in several projects, including the North East Valley Schools Community Project, and is a Sector Leader introducing the revised NZ Curriculum to Dunedin and Central Otago Schools.

John has worked with Boards and fellow principals in a number of areas and is currently involved with principal appraisals and quality assurance matters.

John is reasonably fluent in Te Reo Maori and has helped Kohanga Reo and schools to prepare for ERO visits.

John's successful experience working with staff, students, Boards of Trustees and communities, and his in-depth understanding of the New Zealand education sector, provide him with the invaluable skills and knowledge that he brings to his consulting role with Cooper McKenzie Limited.

Jan Taylor (Primary)

Jan has over 30 years' experience as a Primary School Principal, and is well known and respected around Dunedin and throughout Otago.  Her long involvement with the Otago Primary Principals' Associaton has seen her undertake various roles, including Seminar Co-ordinator, Education Review Office Liaison, Group Special Education, and Life Education Trust member. 

From 2009 - 2010 Jan was a Sector Leader for Curriculum Implementation working for the University of Otago. 

Jan is admired for the practical support and assistance she provides to her fellow Principals.