Mark Ward has been appointed as the new chief executive of the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA). NZVA president Dr Caroline Robertson says Ward’s extensive leadership and business experience in the New Zealand food and agricultural sectors during the past 20 years will be highly valuable as the NZVA builds on its new strategic direction.“His executive roles have included CEO of NZ Crop & Food Research, general manager of the Riddet Institute, general manager of Food & Animal Health at AgResearch, and international marketing in the dairy industry in South Asia, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe,” Dr Robertson says.

Ward’s current role as director of business engagement, Te Puna Whakatipu, at Massey University, involves developing and implementing strategies in the primary industries and related sectors, including research and education. He led the establishment of the national partnership FoodHQ, New Zealand’s gateway to food innovation, and is its foundation programme director. “The NZVA Board is confident that Mark’s strong track record in management, innovation, and leadership, and his personal qualities, will be of great benefit to the association and the veterinary profession in New Zealand,” Dr Robertson says. “He is committed to a unified profession, partnering with the right organisations and achieving its full purpose. It is an exciting time to be coming on board and Mark is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Mark takes up the role as NZVA chief executive from February 1, 2017. Dr Robertson paid tribute to outgoing chief executive Julie Hood, who led the association for almost 10 years. “Under Julie’s leadership, the NZVA has undergone fundamental changes that will help to ensure that New Zealand’s respected veterinary profession continues to have strong support and representation in a rapidly changing world.”

This article was originally sourced from Rural News.