Meet the Team

Edward Mckee Wright

Founder

Edward McKee Wright has more than 30 years’ experience in invoice finance across New Zealand and Australia. Throughout his career, he has helped establish, lead, and grow several successful finance businesses.

Edward began his career with ScotPac and has since worked with organisations including Lock Finance, ORIX, Capital Merchant, MARAC, Working Capital Solutions, and Asset Finance. Having owned and managed finance operations on both sides of the Tasman, he brings extensive industry knowledge and a practical approach to helping businesses improve cash flow and access tailored funding solutions.

Outside of work, Edward is an accomplished musician and enjoys nurturing the musical talent of his teenage son.

Paul Elliott

Director

Paul Elliott is the CEO of Ignite Finance Group and has extensive executive leadership experience across New Zealand’s corporate sector. He has held CEO and CFO roles with organisations including Metlifecare, Zespri, Pacific Retail Group, and Asset Finance Limited. He is also a Chartered Member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors and has served as a director of both listed and privately owned companies.

For the past decade, Paul has been a partner at Time Capital NZ, advising on business acquisitions, turnarounds, and mergers. He continues to provide strategic advice to New Zealand businesses and high-net-worth individuals alongside his role at Ignite.

Outside of work, Paul is a car enthusiast, keen traveller, and enjoys watching athletics events around the world.

Martina Hrestak

Operations Manager

Martina has been an integral part of the team since late 2022. Martina oversees day-to-day operations, escalated client enquires and supports the systems and processes that keep the business running efficiently. Martina is known for her strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to ensuring everything operates smoothly behind the scenes.

Her focus on structure, reliability, and team support helps create a strong operational foundation that enables the company to deliver consistently for its clients.

Martina enjoys spending time with family and friends and loves hosting BBQs, bringing people together over great food and good company.

Victoria Bernecker

Sales Manager

Victoria leads the sales function and plays a key role in driving client engagement and business growth. Since joining in 2024, Victoria’s worked closely with business owners to understand their goals and provide tailored financial solutions.

With a background in business development and relationship management across the finance and property sectors, Victoria is known for her clear communication style and client-focused mindset. She is invested in helping clients unlock opportunities, navigate financial decisions with confidence, and build sustainable growth for their businesses.

When not at work, Victoria enjoys spending time with her family, getting outdoors, and exploring new places.

Cheyenne Skates

Markerting Manager

Cheyenne has been a valued member of the Ignite Finance team since 2020. She works closely with clients to build strong, lasting relationships and ensure they feel supported and confident throughout their funding journey. Cheyenne is passionate about delivering a high level of service and takes pride in providing a positive and responsive experience for every client she works with.

In addition to her client-facing role, Cheyenne also serves as Executive Assistant to the CEO, providing essential support to the leadership team and helping ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the business. Her ability to balance both responsibilities reflects her strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to the wider team.

Outside of work, Cheyenne is a proud mum of two and enjoys spending quality time with her family and catching up with friends.

Stephanie Mckee Wright

Fractional Compliance & HR Manager

With over 30 years’ experience in human resources, Stephanie brings a depth of expertise across a wide range of sectors. As AML Compliance and HR Manager, she combines her extensive HR background with specialist knowledge in anti-money laundering, having been involved in AML compliance for business finance since it became a regulatory requirement. Her dual focus ensures robust compliance frameworks alongside strong people and culture practices.

Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys going to the beach, hiking, camping, cocktails and independent travel.