Hi, I’m Marisa.
I describe myself as an Entrepreneur, Investor & Business Mentor. I am best known for co-founding Madison Recruitment, New Zealand’s largest privately-owned recruitment company which we successfully exited in 2013 when it was acquired in a record breaking 8-figure deal.
Now, my purpose is to empower other women in business to amplify their impact and achieve success on their terms.
More about me.
I was made in Hong Kong, born in New Zealand and raised in West Auckland by my hard-working parents, who owned and sold restaurants. As the oldest of five, I learnt early in life the value of hard work, relationship building and creating financial freedom.
I co-founded Madison Recruitment in the 1990s and, as most entrepreneurs do, learned plenty of lessons the hard way! In 2013 my business partner and I made an 8-figure exit - a pivotal moment in my life. Sitting down with my parents to share the news, and seeing the look on their faces, helped me to grasp the magnitude of what I had just achieved.
Building Madison Recruitment was both grueling and rewarding, but it is what I got in return that has been the real gift. Once I exited, I had the opportunity to reflect and choose my next business ventures intentionally.
My mission now? To help as many other female entrepreneurs thrive - in fact, I’ve set a goal to positively impact 500 women in 5 years.
How I can help you.
I know first-hand the grit (and the grind!) that’s required to grow a business - in fact, as a serial entrepreneur, I’ve been through it multiple times. I also firmly believe that, with the right support, growing a successful business doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or drain you of your passion.
re:ampd’s solutions for female entrepreneurs
When you choose to work with me, I’ll share the roadmap that I’ve refined over the years to create the best possible success in my businesses. Depending on your needs, I can support you through:
Masterclasses: These full-day, workshop-style events offer high-impact learning that can be applied in your business straight away. Choose from masterclasses on Business Foundations, Financials and Sales, or attend them all. Learn more.
Small Group Coaching: Join a small cohort of other female entrepreneurs for monthly coaching with Marisa. This coaching service is designed to help you learn and grow in a safe, supportive environment. Learn more.
Custom Team Workshops: Ready to grow and need to take your team on the journey? Marisa will design and facilitate a custom workshop so that everyone is on the same page and excited about the next step. Learn more.
Entrepreneurs Retreats: Our retreats are a chance to take time out of your business and go deep on the key challenges and opportunities you face. Facilitated by Marisa, this is an immersive, small group experience that will completely change your business trajectory. Learn more.
My why.
Inspired by my mother, it’s an ongoing mission for me to amplify the presence of women in business. That’s because I see the ripple effect women have on their community when they’re successful, and how this makes the world a better place. This is the ‘why’ behind my goal to impact 5oo women in 5 years.
In 2020, I was inducted into the New Zealand Hall of Fame for Women Entrepreneurs in recognition of my contribution to entrepreneurship and support of women in business. I was so proud to be awarded this, because it told me that I was on the right track.
If you’re a woman in business and you’re ready to put in the work that’s needed to truly thrive, I’d love to be part of your journey.
I can’t wait to meet you.