Returning to reimagine – visionary leadership as Toi Ohomai returns to independence

Toi Ohomai has marked its return to independence, welcoming a new Chief Executive and Council.  

Dr Pim Borren was officially welcomed back to Toi Ohomai as CE with a pōhiri at the institute’s Mokoia Campus.  

A highly regarded leader and an economist by trade, Pim is no stranger to the education sector and a familiar face to some. Pim was CE of Toi Ohomai legacy institute, Waiariki Institute of Technology, from 2006 to 2011. During that time, he transformed the institute into a thriving student hub, tripling student numbers and doubling revenue.

His come back marks the return of regional governance of the polytechnic, after the disestablishment of Te Pūkenga.  

The newly established Toi Ohomai council was also formally welcomed at the pōhiri. An experienced and passionate team of governors, the new council is chaired by Deryck Shaw, with Christa George as Deputy Chair and joined by Roana Bennett and Leith Comer (CNZM).  Notably, Leith has recently been appointed Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2026 New Years honours.

Pim said he was honoured to step into the role of CE and he was very much looking forward to once again being part of the Toi Ohomai whānau as it begins a new chapter as an autonomous ITP across the Bay of Plenty and South Waikato.  

“This region is very familiar to me from my time as CE of Waiariki Institute of Technology, and returning here feels very much like coming home for my wife Jane and me.  

“I want to acknowledge the challenges faced by Toi Ohomai and the sector in recent times. With the return to local decision making, I am passionate about strongly connecting with our communities and employers, as we endeavour to be the institute of choice for vocational training and education across the region

“As we look to 2026 and beyond, I am looking forward to working with Council to establish the new strategic direction of the institute.”  

Chair Deryck Shaw says it’s been great for Toi Ohomai to hit the ground running in 2026 with a new CE and a clear direction.

“We know there is a lot of work to be done, but we are confident that together with Dr Borren and the rest of the leadership team, we can achieve great outcomes for Toi Ohomai and the communities we serve.”  

Pictured from left: Leith Comer, Roana Bennett, Dr Pim Borren, Kaumatua Ken Kennedy, Christa George and Deryck Shaw