Stellar Recruitment is proud to welcome Faifili Levave to our Wellington office as a Business Development Manager, joining Mike Newell (BDM), Gregor Tait (Resourcer), and Ellie Sarten (Recruitment Coordinator). With Faifili on board, our Wellington team has grown to 4 over 18 months, demonstrating our strength, capability, and connection to the local community.

Faifili brings a unique blend of professionalism, empathy, and lived experience to his new role - qualities that have defined his journey from international rugby to business development. Faifili recognised for his ability to build meaningful, long-lasting relationships, something that Faifili recognises as the cornerstone of both his personal and professional life.

“Connection means establishing meaningful, trusting, long-lasting relationships in work,” he says. “In family, it is always checking in and making sure I can help where I can. I am known for always looking out for my family and friends, something I am really proud of.”

This deep sense of care and loyalty is a cornerstone of the Pacific culture and has shaped Faifili both as a person and in his career. From his early days with the Wellington Lions, Chiefs, and Hurricanes, to representing Manu Samoa internationally, Faifili’s rugby journey was built on trust, teamwork, and shared purpose. His transition into the corporate world was no different and was facilitated by coaches, teammates, and friends who saw his potential beyond the field.

“With Faifili joining our Wellington team, we are expanding not just in numbers but by Faifili’s ability to connect people and build trust.” Said Wellington based Business Development Manager, Mike Newell. “I am excited about the increased capacity we now have to support our clients and candidates across the Wellington region - and the momentum and relationships we are building in the local business community.”

Faifili’s approach to building trust is refreshingly simple: be genuine, be professional, and follow through. His values are deeply rooted in his Pasifika upbringing. Raised in Porirua, Faifili credits his parents for instilling the principle that guides him today: “My parents always said, ‘Be nice to everyone you meet.’’”

At Stellar, Faifili is excited to forge new relationships, strengthen existing ones, and inspire others in the Wellington business community.

“I hope to deliver Stellar’s values: Greatness, Positivity, Leadership. I want to challenge and grow my skill set, add value to my goals, and inspire everyone I interact with. As an athlete, I have always had the mindset to be the best or better. That mindset won’t change here at Stellar.”



Although Faifili Levave has concluded his international rugby career, his passion for the game continues through his dual role as player and coach for the Ngāti Porou East Coast Rugby team. His deep ties to the sport, combined with strong family connections, played a pivotal role in forging his relationship with Stellar. At his core, Faifili is driven by connection - whether on the field, in the community, or in his professional journey.

If you would like to get in touch with Faifili to see how he can support your business needs, you can find his details here.