From Junior Warriors Player to Passive Fire Project Leader

People are at the heart of Passive Fire NZ so we’re stoked to share a story that makes us really proud. Dean Kouka-Smith, is a Project Team Leader and all-round super-star at Passive Fire New Zealand. Dean joined PFNZ 8 years ago as a teenager! At the time, he was playing for the junior Warriors, and the club had a policy that players needed to be studying or working alongside footy, a smart move that connects young athletes with real-world experience – and, hey – turns out, we did pretty well out of the deal!

Since joining the team, Dean has moved through the ranks quickly. He’s now a valued Project Manager. On the job, Dean’s running our fire protection installs on major construction sites, making sure everything’s running to time, budget and spec. He keeps programmes tight, solves problems before they happen, and leads the team with a calm head and sharp eye.

In Dean’s words: “Since joining PFNZ I’ve grown into a man, a partner, and a dad of four! This place is part of my DNA now.”
As a very busy Dad (of four!) Dean’s whānau, his why, is always top of mind. That dedication and purpose shines through in his way of working and leadership style.
Ask anyone at PFNZ and they’ll tell you, Dean’s superpower is recall. His knowledge of passive fire systems is next level, and he’s lightning fast at moving from problem to solution. We love that about him.

Dean, you’re one of a kind, a PFNZ success story that we’re incredibly proud of – after eight years, our business has grown as you have – and you are a big part of our success.