BUSINESS SPEAKERS

Simon Shepherd

Business journalist, podcast host and MC

Overview

Simon Shepherd is one of New Zealand's most experienced business broadcasters. As senior journalist and host of The NBR Podcast at the National Business Review, he interviews the CEOs, entrepreneurs and politicians shaping the country. On stage, he brings the same calm, rigorous interviewing style to conferences, panels and corporate events.


Who is Simon Shepherd? Simon has more than 30 years' broadcasting experience. He spent 22 years at Three and Newshub, reporting for 60 Minutes and Campbell Live and co-hosting the weekly political and current affairs programme Newshub Nation for five years. In July 2024 he joined NBR to launch and front its flagship business podcast. He is based in Auckland.


Career Highlights

  • Senior journalist and host of The NBR Podcast since July 2024

  • 30+ years in New Zealand broadcasting and business journalism

  • Five years as co-host of Newshub Nation, Three's weekly current affairs programme

  • Reporter for 60 Minutes and Campbell Live

  • Presenter of 3News weekend bulletins

  • Interviewer of leading NZ and international CEOs, business leaders and entrepreneurs

Key Speaking Themes

  • Business in Aotearoa: trends, leadership and the economy

  • The art of the interview and asking the uncomfortable question

  • Media, trust and the future of business journalism

  • Politics, policy and impact on business

  • MC and panel moderation for conferences and corporate events


What Your Audience Will Gain Simon brings sharp questioning, deep business context and a calm authority that lifts the conversation. Audiences leave with a clearer view of New Zealand business, leadership and the economic forces shaping the year ahead.

Ideal For

  • Conferences and AGMs

  • CEO and leadership events

  • Panel discussions and fireside chats

  • Industry awards and gala dinners

  • Strategy days and corporate forums


Frequently Asked Questions...

What does Simon Shepherd speak about? Business, leadership, economics, politics and the New Zealand corporate landscape. He is also booked as an MC and panel moderator.

Where does Simon Shepherd work? He is senior journalist and host of The NBR Podcast at the National Business Review, based in Auckland.

How long has Simon Shepherd been in broadcasting? More than 30 years, including 22 years at Three and Newshub.

Is Simon Shepherd available as an MC? Yes. Simon is regularly booked as a conference MC, panel moderator and interviewer for corporate and industry events.

Does Simon Shepherd interview leaders on stage? Yes. He routinely interviews CEOs, founders, politicians and other senior figures, drawing on his daily work at NBR.

How long is a typical engagement? Standard formats include a 30 to 45 minute moderated interview or panel. Half-day and full-day MC bookings are also available.