James Dunningham

Background

About James Dunningham

James is a strategic leader, planner, and problem solver with 16 years of experience in the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF). He has a strong track record of leading teams, improving systems, and delivering results in complex, high-pressure environments. His leadership style balances operational discipline with a focus on people, performance, and continuous improvement. James has served and deployed across a range of international settings including New Zealand, Australia, Brunei, Canada, the United States, New Caledonia, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Egypt. These experiences have developed his strengths in cross-cultural leadership, crisis management, and multinational collaboration. He holds a Bachelor of Business in International Business and is currently completing an Executive MBA, further building his capability in strategic leadership, governance, and commercial decision-making. James is passionate about working with diverse organisations to solve complex problems and enable sustainable performance. Adaptable, mission-focused, and values-driven, James is committed to delivering outcomes while supporting the growth and wellbeing of those he leads. Outside of work, he enjoys scuba diving, collecting mechanical watches, and ongoing professional development.