Dear Grower Members,
We are writing to inform you of the resignation of PNZ’s Chief Executive, Chris Claridge.
Chris has been in his role for seven years and has significantly changed the way the organisation operates. In this time, he has brought a number of operational and technical services inhouse and there has been a significant increase of levy money dedicated to research and development.
The chair and board appreciate the achievements of the organisation during Chris’ tenure and wish him well for his next endeavours. He will stay on as chief executive until the end of April.
The board also remind grower members that the levy order vote will be held in mid-2024, dates to be confirmed. By that time there will be a new CEO and a new Chair, due to board rotations.
The board consider this refresh in 2023 to be a timely opportunity for the organisation to successfully support the NZ Potato Industry in the next levy order period.
Yours sincerely,
Stuart Wright,
Chair of Potatoes New Zealand Incorporated, on behalf of the board.