About Us
Tim Sterne
Founding Director & Principal Consultant
Tim’s journey has been rather unconventional: a career in education, over a decade in New Zealand Police – including roles as Detective Sergeant and Tactical Intelligence Officer – and experience in faith-based and nonprofit governance. This gives him a rare skillset. Formal investigation and interviewing expertise alongside a pragmatic, logical approach to risk. An instinctive understanding of the cultural dynamics that his clients are navigating. And the experience to know what’s actually at stake – not just legally, but relationally.
He has led investigations into all forms of serious crime and corruption, as well as civil cases spanning misconduct, breaches of professional and ethical codes, and historic abuse. Since launching Basalt Solutions in 2024, he has worked with clients across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific to develop their internal capabilities and to help them address ongoing concerns and complaints.
Tim has tertiary qualifications in the Arts, Secondary Teaching and International Security and is licenced to conduct workplace investigations in Queensland and New Zealand.
tim@basaltsolutions.com
+64 22 099 0791
Kerryn Malcolm
Senior Consultant
Kerryn is legally trained with a background in leadership development, governance, education and pastoral ministry. She began in university residential life, spending five years in leadership roles across two university residential colleges. She went on to lead a church through a decade of rapid growth. At a large secondary school she spent six years teaching, and established and directed a leadership development centre. She has spoken and facilitated workshops on leadership and workplace wellbeing, working with audiences across New Zealand, Asia, the Pacific and Europe.
Kerryn holds degrees in Law and Science, a Graduate Diploma in Theology, and an MBA with Distinction. She is licenced to conduct workplace investigations in New Zealand.
Kerryn contributes to investigations, reviews, dispute resolution and training. She has spent her career inside the sectors we serve, and brings the legal training and analytical discipline to help them handle concerns and complaints well.
kerryn@basaltsolutions.com
+64 21 221 5184
Natalie Sterne
Administrator
Natalie brings more than a decade of experience as a school teacher. She has also worked as a professional practice lecturer, and serves in school governance and church volunteer roles. She is trained in trauma-informed care and certified in mental health first aid. She holds a Bachelor of Education and a Diploma in Teaching.
Natalie provides behind-the-scenes advice and support to our operations, ensuring our work reflects the realities of the education and nonprofit environments.
Our Network
We have access to a network of trusted consultants and collaborators with expertise across law, investigations, safeguarding, and governance, enabling us to assemble the right team at the right scale for your situation.