Simon Wallace has been appointed the new Chief Executive of the New Zealand Aged Care Association (NZACA). Currently Policy & Insight Manager with the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA), Mr Wallace will take up his new role on 2 June.

"We are delighted to have recruited a Chief Executive from a membership organisation and who has such strong policy and lobbying skills," says NZACA Chairman Simon O'Dowd.

"Simon has headed up TIA's policy and insight activities for almost nine years, and more recently has helped lead development of the New Zealand tourism industry's long term growth strategy, Tourism 2025.

"His previous experience as a ministerial advisor in the health sector and his networks within government agencies and other business groups will also be very valuable in his work with NZACA."

Mr Wallace says he is excited to be taking on the role at a time when the aged care sector is experiencing strong growth. "I am keen to get out and meet NZACA members and engage with the wider sector to understand the opportunities and challenges that growth brings, such as investment, recruiting and retaining staff. I'll also be talking with members and the NZACA team to identify new ways to promote the great work people and businesses in this sector do."

He says immediate priorities will be getting up to speed quickly with some of the big issues facing NZACA members and focusing on the upcoming Annual Conference in Auckland, 8-10 September. Mr Wallace is replacing Martin Taylor, who has taken up a position in the Office of the Leader of the Opposition.