Auckland University of Technology welcomes you back for the Great Graduates Speaker Series on Thursday, 22 October 2026.

What does it take to build an award-winning business from the ground up?

Join us for a candid fireside chat with AUT alumna Wendy Thompson, founder of Thompson Spencer, one of New Zealand's largest independent advertising agencies. Facilitated by Ben Wooliscroft, Professor of Macromarketing, we'll explore how Wendy started her business with a second-hand laptop and a bold idea, crucial lessons in leadership, the impact of AI and her advice for the next generation of talent.

Before you arrive, consider this; if you were starting your career today, what would you invest in most – building your skills, growing your network or backing yourself to take bigger risks?

It’ll be an evening of practical insights, honest conversations and meaningful connections with alumni, students and industry leaders.

Meet our guest - Wendy Thompson

A distinguished alumna of Auckland University of Technology, Wendy graduated with a Bachelor of Business in 2000. An EY Entrepreneur of the Year finalist, she is now Thompson Spencer's Executive Director of Strategic Development, focused on mergers, acquisitions and enterprise value. She is also an independent director at aviation startup Pyper Vision and PCBL where she is helping bring a Pasifika streaming platform to life.

Meet our Facilitator - Professor Ben Wooliscroft

Ben Wooliscroft is the world's first Professor of Macromarketing, a discipline that concerns itself with the interactions between markets, marketing and society, with the goal of improving the provisioning system for all. He is also the Editor in Chief of the Journal of Macromarketing. His research covers sustainable and ethical consumption, transitions to better consumption and energy and transport improvements, with a focus on sustainable transport.

The Great Graduates Speaker Series with Wendy Thompson, Founder of Ad Agency - Thompson Spencer

Choose your tickets

AUT Alumni ticket

Industry / Guest ticket

AUT Student ticket