Global manufacturing leadership powered by a Massey EMBA

Mr Woolner completed his EMBA in 2019 and is now the Managing Director of Autex New Zealand, leading 175 staff across two manufacturing sites in Auckland. Autex is a family-owned business with a growing international footprint, with products used in buildings around the world, from schools in Egypt to the offices of Google and Facebook.

The decision to study an EMBA came when he changed roles from Sales Director into the executive team.

“At that point in my career, I lacked a bit of confidence joining an executive team with more experience and tenure than I had. Learning business theory and being able to apply that back into the business straight away was hugely beneficial.”

He says the programme helped him turn ideas into strategic plans and gave him frameworks he still uses today.

“I was able to better articulate ideas into structured plans and through in-depth business case studies learnt in class, I was able to see how others had approached similar situations.”

One of the most powerful aspects of the programme was the ability to apply coursework directly to live challenges inside Autex.

Many of his assignments focused on real projects already underway in the business, creating opportunities to work across departments, and challenge existing ways of operating.

Mr Woolner says this immediate connection between learning and practice made the EMBA especially valuable.

“Many of the projects I completed within the key modules addressed key challenges or projects I was currently working on within Autex.”

That leadership capability was put to the test soon after graduation when he helped steer the company through the COVID-19 pandemic, an experience he describes as one of the most significant milestones of his career.

He led the company’s response through a period of uncertainty, balancing business continuity with the wellbeing of staff and the need for clear communication.

“The work to keep our business functioning, staff informed and cared for, and all while dealing with uncertainty, was massive, and I think we did incredibly well.”

That people-first leadership style continues to shape his work today.

Mr Woolner also serves as a council member for Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA), helping advocate for talent development, productivity and the future of New Zealand manufacturing.

He says the value of strong networks is something the EMBA and his industry leadership roles have in common.

“Much like the EMBA, the AMA also pools great companies and leaders, and shares challenges, learnings and opportunities, creating a powerful network and advocacy channel.”

Looking back, he says Massey’s EMBA programme gave him credibility, confidence and a valuable leadership network.

His advice for professionals considering the EMBA is simple. “Commit fully. The experience is transformational for those prepared to immerse themselves in it. You get out what you put in. The network you develop is valuable and understanding how to approach learning and personal development sets you up well for that leadership journey.”