Feb 16, 2024
The search is well underway for a new chief executive for Deer Industry NZ (DINZ), following current CEO Innes Moffat’s resignation.
Moffat resigned last month after 18 years with the organisation and the last four and a half years as its chief executive. His last day at DINZ will be 1 March. Until an appointment is made by the DINZ Board, chair Mandy Bell will step in as interim executive chair, supported by other DINZ board members.
Keeping the momentum going: Mandy Bell will be acting as DINZ executive chair from early March.
The DINZ board has engaged a recruitment agency to assist with the search. In the meantime, as executive chair, Bell will, “keep up the momentum and support the DINZ executive team,” she says.
“We have a good sector strategy in place,” she says. “DINZ remains focused on leading industry change and securing better access for deer products in international markets. That work continues with the full attention of the DINZ board and executive.”
Finding the right person to step into Moffat’s seat is expected to take a couple of months.
The board is looking for, among other things, “a talented individual who combines passion for the New Zealand primary sector, with strong leadership capability, together with the mana required to develop meaningful and trusting relationships.”
Interested candidates can apply to Decipher Group until close of business on Monday 19 February 2024.
Contact Leanne Crozier at Decipher leanne@deciphergroup.co.nz, 021-245 2224 for a chat. More information here >>
Moffat praised for long-term contribution to the deer sector
Innes Moffat, DINZ chief executive 2019-2024.
In response to news of his departure, Moffat has been praised for his work over the last nearly two decades from colleagues in the deer industry both in New Zealand and overseas, the meat industry and from leaders across the wider pastoral sector. During his tenure, he has earned a reputation for his clear vision, practical solutions-based and humble approach and ability to work at all levels.
Leading the DINZ team has been both a “privilege and pleasure”, he has said. He made the difficult, “but right”, decision to leave after the completion of the DINZ organisation’s restructure last year and the post-Covid19 recovery for venison.
The sector had been through some hard times, much of which was externally imposed by the pandemic and international trading conditions, which required serious recalibration for the industry organisation.
“But we’re on the right track now,” he believes, thanking all those he has worked with over the last few years for bringing it all together.
This ranges from the deer farmers who have “given their passion and input to the industry” to the “dedicated and hard-working” DINZ team and contractors, to the other pastoral industry leaders, government officials and politicians he has worked alongside over the years.
Deer Industry News’ March edition, due out next month, will carry a full biography and tribute to Moffat.
Mandy Bell has acknowledged Moffat’s’ long-term contribution and thanked him for his service, noting his “unwavering support and service to DINZ, which has had a significant impact on many.”
