After more than 15 years of dedicated service on the Big Buddy Mentoring Trust Board, Mark Talbot is retiring from his role as Trustee.
While we’re saying goodbye to Mark as a Trustee, we’re delighted that he isn’t going far. Mark will continue as Chairman of the Big Buddy Foundation, helping lead our legacy giving and fundraising efforts so that Big Buddy can continue changing boys’ lives for generations to come.
The Journey
Mark’s Big Buddy journey began long before he joined the Board. He became a Big Buddy volunteer mentor in 2007, inspired by the belief that every boy deserves a positive male role model. Four years later, in 2011, he joined the Board of Trustees, bringing not only his governance and business expertise but also the perspective of someone who had experienced the impact of mentoring firsthand.
Over the past 15 years, Mark has helped guide Big Buddy through periods of significant growth and challenge. His thoughtful leadership, generosity and unwavering commitment have left a lasting mark on the organisation and the thousands of boys, mentors and whānau whose lives have been touched by Big Buddy.
How Mark Consistently Showed Up
Former Big Buddy Mentoring Trust Chairman Travis Field, who served alongside Mark for 14 years, recalls first meeting him in 2011 when Mark was considering joining the Board.
“What struck me then, and still does today, was Mark’s incredible capacity to give and serve. He was already a Big Buddy, had a young family, ran his own business, supported other charities – and was still asking how he could contribute to Big Buddy.
“Mark’s busyness never stopped him from showing up. While Big Buddy certainly benefited from his financial expertise, it was his heart and character that shone through in the boardroom as we navigated countless challenges together.
“Over the years we served together, we weathered the Global Financial Crisis, a recession, a pandemic, three leadership changes, and the many human challenges that come with supporting Little Buddies, Big Buddies, whānau and our dedicated staff team. Through it all, Mark brought calmness, wisdom, lived experience and genuine care.
“Thank you, Mark, for the significant part you’ve played in creating happier, healthier young boys, stronger mentoring relationships and better outcomes for whānau across New Zealand.”
Those who have worked alongside Mark know that he has never sought recognition. Whether mentoring a Little Buddy, contributing around the board table, or supporting fundraising initiatives behind the scenes, his focus has always been on creating the greatest possible impact for others.
Reflecting on why he first became involved with Big Buddy, Mark once spoke about wanting to make a practical difference in a young person’s life, recognising that consistent encouragement and simply being there could have a lasting impact. That belief has shaped his contribution ever since.
Current Big Buddy Mentoring Trust Chairman Shaun Quincey says Mark’s contribution has been felt across every part of the organisation…
“Mark’s commitment to Big Buddy over the years has been incredible – both as a mentor and trustee. His passion for supporting our tamariki and driving our mahi forward has made a real difference, and I’m grateful for all he’s contributed to the organisation and our community.”
Life Outside Of Big Buddy
Away from Big Buddy, Mark lives on Auckland’s North Shore with his wife Claire and their three children, Tom, Molly and Charlie. He works with growth-focused companies seeking to expand globally and, when time allows, enjoys a round of golf and of course heading along to as many Big Buddy events as possible!
The Board, staff, volunteers and wider Big Buddy whānau are deeply grateful for Mark’s years of service, wisdom and unwavering commitment. His leadership has helped strengthen the organisation, ensuring that more boys without dads in their lives have the opportunity to be matched with caring mentors who show up, week after week.
We’re incredibly fortunate that your Big Buddy journey continues through the Big Buddy Foundation, and we look forward to the next chapter together.
