A Remarkable Career in Audio, Tech and Christian Media: Andrew Fraser

At the Excellence in Media Awards on Tuesday, September 24, CMAA honoured four great media and arts pioneers with our ‘Legacy Awards’. Among them was Andrew Fraser, the former CEO of Rhema Media, New Zealand, who received a Lifetime Dedication – Media award.

The first 20 years of Andrew’s career were in audio engineering (at the Cornelius Charitable Trust), as an electrician (with Telecom New Zealand) and later working with Schneider Electrical Group – a company where he held multiple roles, honing his skills not only in the technical field but in management and leadership.

With Schneider, Andrew showed his pioneering stripes, being instrumental in expanding production by 100%,  and introducing surface mount electronics assembly, among other great achievements.

Andrew's journey with New Zealand’s Rhema Media began in 2002, initially as the technical operations manager, later moving on to become general manager of operations , and ultimately becoming CEO.

Throughout his tenure he made significant achievements - such as getting Shine TV up and running, managing frequency auctions, and spearheading Rhema Media's 2030 vision campaign for the 2011 license renewals, alongside John Fabrin.

He also played a pivotal role in converting the radio studios to digital, expanding Life FM to Wellington and Christchurch, and investing in Rhema’s Te Tiriti o Waitangi journey (Treaty of Waitangi).

Andrew is deeply involved in the Christian media community, through CMAA, Nexus, and serving on the board for UCB Asia Pacific. He has also represented Rhema Media and independent radio broadcasters in New Zealand, on the Radio Broadcasters Association board.

As Andrew steps into a new chapter in his life, we celebrate his remarkable contributions and the legacy he leaves at Rhema media. His dedication, innovation and leadership have been an inspiration to many.