ESR CEO appointment

ESR CEO appointment

On behalf of the ESR Board, Dr Susan Macken is pleased to announce the appointment of Graham Smith as ESR’s new CEO. He replaces Dr John Hay who stepped down after 11 years in the role.

Prior to ITEK, Mr Smith had four years as CEO of the Waikato regional economic development group Katolyst, and three years with AgResearch as GM Marketing. Graham also spent considerable time in various roles with the food companies CSR and Dairy Vale in Australia.

Dr Macken said Mr Smith had broad experience in working with the state sector (in NZ and Australia), including supporting scientists to undertake excellent fundamental and applied science and its translation into commercial returns.

"Mr Smith's strengths in business development and credibility and leadership through working in the science and research environment, are well proven over numerous years and roles. The Board feels he has the skills, experience and presence to lead ESR into what may be a significantly-changed environment."

"ESR is a science-based organisation, and nurturing and maintaining the highest quality science is the key to both increased public good and commercial success. The board is aware that In the current CRI environment it is necessary for ESR to seek a greater transfer of scientific expertise and knowhow to the community through commercial partnerships; not only to fulfil its Statement of Core Purpose, but also to increase research revenue," Dr Macken said.

ESR (Institute of Environmental Science and Research) is a Crown Research Institute. It has 350 staff working at four sites (Auckland, Porirua, Wallaceville and Christchurch) and revenue of more than $53 million.

ESR’s operational and research science underpins the health and justice systems in New Zealand. Its work enables central and local government to deliver better evidence-based policy and operational outcomes through provision of independent scientific advice and services. It supports government agencies deliver on their key priorities and organisational and sector outcomes.

ESR is the:

- sole provider of forensic services to the New Zealand Police

- principal science advisor and service provider to the Ministry of Health

- science advisor and service provider to the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF – biosecurity and food safety), New Zealand Customs Service, Medsafe, Pharmac and the Department of Corrections

- advisor and service provider to local authorities, industry organisations and the private sector.

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