The Swell Team
Founded with a singular purpose, Swell exists to ensure that no New Zealand business misses out on the funding available to them.
Our team of funding experts is ready to assist you. Learn more about the key people who will guide you through the process and ensure your business secures the best possible funding.
Marie Dawkins
Senior Grant Funding Consultant
Marie's experience in the funding space comes from a combined experience as CEO of Summerfruit NZ for six years followed by three years at SFF Futures, MPI’s largest grant fund. She brings a wealth of experience of both sides of the funding environment.
Her deep understanding of both applying for funding and allocating funding means that she understands the complete process from developing the first concept through securing funding and delivering the outcomes.
Her big takeaway from these experiences is how important communication and relationships are.
Michael Barry
Head of Growth
Over the last 10 years, Michael has been embedded in Aotearoa's innovation ecosystem and is currently on a mission to revolutionise how businesses tap into funding for innovative projects. Prior to joining Swell, Michael spent a decade founding, scaling and successfully exiting a global EdTech company. With a passion for seeing Kiwi companies succeed on the world stage, Michael brings strategic funding and growth expertise to Swell's current and future customer base.
Nick Prattley
Managing Director
Nick has a decade of global experience in R&D Tax Incentives and Grant Funding and has delivered over $15m in non-dilutive funding to some of Aotearoa’s most innovative businesses — transforming their growth journey.
Nick brings robust commercial and compliance expertise gained from KPMG and other tier-one advisors to ensure Swell’s clients achieve maximum success from innovation funding opportunities.
Swell by name, swell by nature
At Swell, we foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. As a small team, every member plays a crucial role in our success, and we believe in empowering our staff to take ownership of their roles. Our values are reflected in everything we do, from how we support our clients to how we work together as a team.
Join our team
At Swell, we’re not just a team—we’re a small, close-knit group of innovation funding experts committed to making a big impact. Our size allows us to stay agile and deeply connected to the success of every project we undertake. If you’re passionate about helping New Zealand businesses thrive, Swell offers a unique opportunity to grow with a team that values collaboration and expertise.
We’re always on the lookout for passionate people to join our team. If you’re interested in working with us, please send your CV to careers@swell.co.nz
R&D Incentives
Manager / Senior Manager
Newly created role in fast growing boutique advisory firm
Based in Christchurch
Manage the end-to-end client service delivery process
Requires strong expertise in RDTI and R&D Loss Tax Credit, as well as relationship management and strategic planning
Are you an R&D Incentives expert with innovative ideas for improving client outcomes? Now is the time to join the highly motivated Swell team and make a difference.
For more information and to apply for this role, click the link below.