Monday, 17 May 2004 Media Statement

New Board Members for Research Foundation

Minister of Research, Science and Technology Pete Hodgson has appointed three new Board members to the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology.

The new members are Craig Norgate, Professor Judith Kinnear and Jim McLean. Dame Margaret Bazley has been appointed Presiding Member and Dr Andy Pearce has been appointed Deputy Presiding Member of the Foundation.

Mr Hodgson said all the appointees were highly respected in their professions.

"These people bring to the Foundation a wide range of skills and experience in research, science and technology from both the private and public sectors. The blend of business leadership, research expertise and academic brilliance they offer, combined with their extensive international experience, will be invaluable to the Foundation’s work."

The Foundation invests over $400 million of public funding each year in a wide range of research, science and technology initiatives with economic, social and environmental benefits for New Zealand.

Mr Hodgson also paid tribute to Neil Richardson, Paula Rebstock and Dr Ken Taylor, who are retiring from the Board.

Biographical details of the new appointees are attached.

Biographical information, new FRST board members

Mr Craig Norgate

Craig Norgate was Chief Executive Officer of Fonterra from its formation in 2001 to July 2003. He is a former director of the New Zealand Dairy Board, Australasian Food Holdings Ltd, Mainland Products Ltd, Peters & Browne Foods Ltd, and the New Zealand Rugby Football Union. He was previously Chief Executive Officer of Kiwi Co-operative Dairies. Mr Norgate has a Bachelor of Business Studies in Accounting & Finance and is a chartered accountant.

Professor Judith Kinnear

Judith Kinnear is Vice Chancellor of Massey University. She was previously Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and International) and Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Sydney, and has held academic positions at universities including Cornell and the University of London. She has also served on numerous committees and Boards in a community and professional capacity.

Mr Jim McLean

Jim McLean is a director of Genesis Research and Development Corporation Limited and chairman of NZBio, the New Zealand biotechnology industry body. He has previously worked with firms including Ernst & Young and Dunlop New Zealand Limited. He has a BSc (Hons) in chemistry and is a chartered accountant.

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