New Leader for Textiles New Zealand Board

20 October 2005

News release from Textiles New Zealand
For immediate usage

New Leader for Textiles New Zealand Board

Mr Richard Westlake has been appointed Chairman of Textiles New Zealand, the industry development organisation for textiles, carpet, footwear and apparel sectors.

Richard Westlake brings substantial director and management level experience to the organisation.

His own company, Westlake Consulting Ltd, is a leading adviser in corporate governance, leadership and strategy. He works with the boards and chief executives of a wide variety of organisation in both the private and public sectors, in New Zealand and overseas, and is a keynote presenter on the Institute of Directors flagship ‘Company Directors’ and ‘Chairing the Board’ programmes.

Richard Westlake is Chair of the Standards Council of NZ, Deputy Chair of the Institute of Geological & Nuclear Sciences Ltd and an Independent Director of Kiwibank Ltd. Former chairmanships include the Holmes Group Ltd (structural and civil engineers), Quotable Value Ltd and MetService of New Zealand Ltd.

“Textiles New Zealand is charged with transforming an industry which many perceive as facing huge challenges. I see what is currently a half-billion dollar export industry with significant competitive advantages in specialist areas, looking to become a billion dollar industry with an international reputation,” said Richard Westlake on taking up the chairmanship on 11th October.

“I am convinced collaboration will be the key. Textiles New Zealand is finding ways for the various sectors to recognise common issues and work together to resolve them wherever possible.

The industry has to deal with some enormous challenges in the next few years, but I believe the billion-dollar goal is quite achievable and I’m looking forward to the role immensely,” he concluded.

ENDS

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