Meet the Parrs
Greg Parr | Managing Director
Greg is the Managing Director of Parrs Products, having taken over the operations of the business from his mother Margaret Parr in late 1980s’. Beginning his career working with his Father, Des Parr, at a Plant Shop and Nursery for 3 years, Greg has also worked in a variety of sales and advertising roles across the FMCG, advertising, and packaging industries for Birdseye Foods, BJ Snell Packaging, and the New Zealand Herald. Greg has significant international business experience, having been involved in importing and exporting gift and skincare products for over 30 years; having owned and operated his own souvenir importers and store business with his wife Janet Parr, until the business merged with Parrs Souvenirs, and the two became Parrs New Zealand Souvenirs. Greg is responsible for leading and inspiring a diverse team from design, manufacturing, and sales staff; and also guides the strategic direction, long term growth and development of the business.
Janet Parr | Creative Director
Drawing on an extensive background and talent in design and arts, Janet leads the business in designing new products; as well as conducting extensive market research both in New Zealand and overseas. Janet began working in floristry after leaving school, eventually working for Des Parr in his plant shop, where she would meet Greg. After managing their souvenir stores, the merge with Parrs Souvenirs saw Janet take up the role of designing most of the artwork and product concept designs for the business which has included over the years the design concepts for tea towels, the Mr Kiwi Bird soft toys, hessian sheep wool bags; and the Wild Ferns Skincare branding. Janet now leads the design team in implementing her creative ideas and concepts into innovative, timeless products.
Melissa Parr | General Manager
Melissa has worked in the Parrs business for over 20 years. She started working part time in Procurement and Costing whilst completing a business course specialising in Business Management. Melissa’s main focus in the company is Project Management. She oversees and manages all aspects of New Product Development from concept and design to production and shipping. She also focuses on improving systems and efficiencies in the on-site warehouse and office, leveraging her extensive knowledge of computer and quality systems management principles.
Tammy Parr | Sales and Product Development Manager
Tammy has an extensive background in retail sales and store merchandising, having spent time in the UK merchandising and window dressing for Libertys and Burberrys; while also completing courses in photography and graphic design. Tammy joined Parrs Products full time as a Sales Representative in August 2000, managing the Kaitaia to Taupo territory, before moving on to managing Auckland Key accounts. Her current focus in the company is to ensure all key accounts are supported, while leading the development of product and strict brand standards both in-store; and through the business’ extensive series of advertising campaigns.