Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

The Company is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead its next phase of strategic and market development. The role combines external relationship-building with organisational leadership and commercial stewardship, including growing recognition and value of a shared quality mark among consumers and members. Responsibilities include building relationships with members, government, regulators, industry, and international stakeholders; leading a small team; and advising the Board on the capabilities and resources needed to deliver the strategy. The CEO will also guide intellectual property strategy and science programmes alongside technical specialists, uphold the integrity of standards and certification, and oversee sound financial management. The ideal candidate is an experienced senior leader, preferably with Chief Executive or General Manager experience, and a strong record of leading people, delivering strategy, and building organisational capability. They should bring commercial acumen and experience in market development, brand growth, or consumer-focused work, along with an understanding of international markets and the ability to influence senior stakeholders. Strong financial and governance capability, including providing clear recommendations to a Board, is required. Cultural awareness and the ability to build constructive relationships with Māori stakeholders are important; scientific or intellectual property expertise is not required.