Foundation Chief Takes Up New Role

MEDIA STATEMENT Monday 19 June 2000

FOUNDATION CHIEF TAKES UP NEW ROLE

Foundation for Research, Science & Technology Chief Executive, Dr Steve Thompson, has been appointed to a new position as Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Society.

Dr Thompson has been with the Foundation for three years. During that time he has made a considerable contribution to designing the Foundation’s new strategic direction and to raising the Foundation’s profile in New Zealand’s business community.

Foundation Chair Neil Richardson said he looked forward to continuing to work closely with Dr Thompson in his new role.

“He will make a strong contribution to the Royal Society and we are pleased that he will remain in the science system,” Mr Richardson said.

The Foundation will continue with the implementation of its new direction and structure. Gowan Pickering, former General Manager of IBM New Zealand, will act as the Foundation’s Chief Executive. He will take up the position from early July and will remain with the Foundation until it appoints a new chief executive.

“We will be implementing our new structure on 3 July and we are delighted to have someone of Mr Pickering’s calibre to lead us through this next stage.

“Mr Pickering has been working as a consultant with the Foundation for the past five months,” Mr Richardson said.

“Over that time he has developed a strong belief in and commitment to the Foundation as a leading investor in New Zealand’s innovation system.”

For further information
Neil Richardson – Telephone 025 988 763
Patricia Donovan- Telephone 025 226 4136

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