Nick Hubbard

Founder & CEO, Formance | Better buildings. Faster.

Christchurch Metropolitan Area

About

I lead the team delivering Formance panel systems, used as the structural envelope in some of New Zealand's warmest, driest and healthiest homes. When Formance started over a decade ago, SIPs were a curiosity at best. Most architects had not heard of them, and builders were sceptical. Over 1,000 projects later, and with a growing number of NZers waking up every morning to more comfortable conditions, SIPs have become a category of building in NZ that is not only challenging the status quo, but delivering a step change in the standards we accept for home comfort. What's the status quo? Mainstream NZ homes are built with sticks and fluff - traditional timber framing and fibreglass insulation that provides a level of thermal performance that is adequate to meet our building code. But this code would not be adequate for the performance required in other countries (particularly Europe and North America). It's time to catch up and we're not doing that alone. Architects and specifiers who backed the vision early are the reason we're still here today, and the consistent support of our network of builders continues to grow the category. I'm a huge supporter of higher standards, which is why we've had CodeMark certification for our product system since 2014. CodeMark matters more than it sounds, it's the difference between "trust us" and "here's the evidence", and I advocate at every opportunity for continuous improvement. Improvement in building performance, in code compliance, in manufacturing, and in efficiency at every step of the process. It's not easy breaking new ground to a better future in the construction industry, and what we've achieved wouldn't be possible without our excellent team who always go the extra mile. Our reward is in the lives improved by better living conditions. For me it's all about quality of life because you only get one.

Experience

  • Formance (13 yrs 6 mos)
    • Founder
      Oct 2022 - Present · 3 yrs 9 mos

    • General Manager
      Mar 2013 - Present · 13 yrs 4 mos

      Privileged to be working with passionate industry thought-leaders to change the game in Construction in NZ.

    • Managing Director
      Jan 2013 - Oct 2022 · 9 yrs 10 mos

  • Director at Enable Group Limited
    2012 - Present · 14 yrs 6 mos

  • Global Web Manager at Universal Business Team
    Jun 2011 - Dec 2012 · 1 yr 7 mos

    Responsible for setting up multi-site ecommerce and content distribution solution. Involved scoping requirements and finding solutions for complex ecommerce business needs. Managed web team of internal members and external contractors.

  • HUBCO AUTOMOTIVE LIMITED (11 yrs 4 mos)
    • Business Development Manager
      2008 - 2011 · 3 yrs

      Responsible for developing the business through online channels and international markets. Worked closely with Marketing to develop global web presence and introduced the Whispbar to multiple country distributors around the world.

    • Operations Manager
      Jun 2003 - Aug 2008 · 5 yrs 3 mos

      Responsible for all production and operations of Hubco. Set up lean manufacturing lines, oversaw project to take company DIFOT from 63% to 99%. Introduced staff incentive scheme for world class operation.

    • Quality Systems Manager
      Mar 2002 - May 2003 · 1 yr 3 mos

      Responsible for maintaining the QS9000 and ISO9001 quality systems, also the Ford-based Q1 system. Implemented ISO14001.