The new Chair of Industry New Zealand will be Mike Andrews.

Economic Development Minister Jim Anderton announced the appointment today, saying Mr Andrews would take up his new role late this month.

"Mike Andrews is well recognised as a leader in his field, with a long and practical commitment to business and sustainable economic development.

"The Government established Industry New Zealand to work in partnership with business and local communities. Mike Andrews has a track record and widespread respect in linking business and economic development.

"The industrial base of New Zealand needs to be transformed through a partnership approach to economic development, and Mike Andrews has the skills to provide the leadership for Industry New Zealand's partnership role," Jim Anderton said.

Craig Boyce has been the Acting Chair of the Industry New Zealand Board since Industry New Zealand was appointed on 6 October 2000. At the time of his appointment the Government announced that a permanent chair would take up the new position this year.

Mike Andrews became chief executive of Fletcher Challenge Ltd in December 1997. Prior to that he was Divisional Chief executive of Fletcher Challenge Energy and Fletcher Challenge Forests.

Mr Andrews has thirty years of experience in Fletcher Challenge's businesses, spanning forestry, building materials, steel, pulp and paper and energy. He is a member of the New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development and a member of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development and a member of the World Economic Forum. He is also currently chairman of the Wool Board's Implementation Project Committee.

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