PROGRESS PEOPLE - Key Persons


Jonathan Pooch

Job Titles:
  • Business Leader
  • Leadership Coach Facilitator
Those who have known Jonathan for any length of time know that he is passionate about making a difference, a passion that he translates into his teaching and mentoring. Jonathan is a practical coach and facilitator, with a particular focus on relating a meaningful and real experience. Jonathan is an experienced business leader, having established DETA Consulting, now New Zealand's largest consultancy specialising in energy management and sustainability strategy. Through the evolution of DETA, Jonathan experienced the highs and lows of leading a business, and all things in between. He knows how lonely it can be at the top, and the challenge of balancing work with family and other commitments. His particular skills are team building, change management and professional development. Jonathan is a Chartered Professional Engineer and active member of the Institute of Directors. As a passionate sportsperson, Jonathan enjoys contributing to the sporting community in addition to playing himself. Much of his free time is currently spent coaching and supporting the children in their various sporting and other activities. He also enjoys spending time in the outdoors, particularly tramping with family in the beautiful New Zealand environment.

Robin Rawson - Founder, Managing Director

Job Titles:
  • Founder
  • Managing Director
​Robin is the founder and Managing Director of Progress People. He coaches and consults to a wide range of Boards of Directors, Chief Executives and Senior Managers and has worked with a wide range of industry groups. Robin is a specialist in professional development and a highly sought-after facilitator and presenter. He has extensive knowledge and over 30 years' experience in leadership development and skills-based employee development. Robin holds a National Certificate in Business Studies, a Diploma in Adult Teaching and Certificate in Training and Development. He is a senior consultant for the NZ Institute of Management (NZIM) South Island wide and an accredited 4QL educator with the Wilf Jarvis Foundation. Outside of work, Robin enjoys unwinding in his shed, often immersing himself in woodworking projects. He is an avid collector and owns a very impressive collection of Batman paraphernalia, Lego and McDonalds toys spanning many decades. He also enjoys spending time with family and keeping up with his five young grandchildren.