Bill Boyd

Bill Boyd was only the second New Zealander to be the World President of Rotary International in the 102 years of that service organisation.

In his two years as President elect and President, Bill and Lorna were based in Evanston, Illinois and travelled about two thirds of the time. They visited 40 countries and Bill spoke to many thousands of Rotarians, saw hundreds of service projects and met many influential leaders.

Bill was born in Christchurch and left school at the age of 15 because his father had bought a bookshop and Bill loved books. In his twenties he joined Gordon and Gotch Ltd and he retired as General Manager of Gordon and Gotch Magazines in 1995 with the company then employing 140 staff and having a turnover well in excess of $100 million. He was a Council Member of the NZ Magazine Publishers Association and represented the company at a number of world distribution congresses. Following his retirement he completed two major industry assignments and is now a NZ consultant for three international magazine publishers.

He has presented on industry matters to 4 Parliamentary Select committees. He continues to act as a consultant while devoting more time to Rotary. Amongst other positions he has been a Director of Rotary International and Treasurer. Bill has been a Scout Master, youth leader, served on school committees and refereed rugby for 31 years.

In 2007 he was awarded the Queens Service Order for Community Service, an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Don Kook (Seoul) and the Distinguished Service Award by The Rotary Foundation.

Bill has a relaxed speaking style and responds well to questions. His experience has given him a social perspective on many parts of the world.

Presentations:

• • Behind the Headlines
• • Global Perspective
• • Industry Consultant