Media Statement
For immediate release

Sunday 7 October 2007

Nigel Kirkpatrick to lead Wellington's export drive

Nigel Kirkpatrick has been appointed as Chief Executive to Wellington's new economic development agency, Regional EDA Ltd.

Regional EDA, which opened on 1 July 2007 is focussing on growing the region's economy, especially its exports.

"We are thrilled to have someone with Nigel's skills and experience to lead the implementation of the economic aspects of the Wellington Regional Strategy and bring drive and energy to the region's export business market," said Chairperson, Murray McCaw.

"Nigel brings a wide range of international experience to the organisation with specialist skills in corporate leadership, general management, business, sales and marketing.

"Nigel has held a number of leadership roles across a range of businesses including Chief Executive, Industrial Research and Chief Executive, of Dunedin based high tech start-up company, The Street. He has held key leadership roles for global giant Unilever including Global Innovation Leader, Managing Director Indonesia and Malaysia and General Manager New Zealand.

"Nigel's international outlook combined with his leadership experience across general management, global partnerships and start-ups gives him a sound appreciation of the highs and lows and the issues facing a wide variety of organisations.

"While Nigel has had a very successful international career, he is passionate about Wellington and committed to raising his family here. Nigel is the ideal person to champion initiatives to help build export businesses in the greater Wellington region," Mr McCaw said.

Mr Kirkpatrick's appointment is effective 1 November 2007.

ends

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