Dr Keith McLea, ESR’s Chief Executive, has announced his intention to step down from the role he has held for the past six years.
“I’ve been with ESR for six years, leading the organisation through significant change to what I feel confident is a position of strength. ESR now has firm foundations for further transformation, to ensure the organisation will serve NZ’s future needs within a rapidly changing base of science and technology” he said.
Dr McLea, who also holds the role of Chair for Science NZ, does not plan to retire, rather move into a role where he has more flexibility and time for family, friends and community work.
ESR’s Board Chair Mrs Denise Church has expressed her gratitude for Dr McLea’s deep commitment to ESR over the past six years.
“Keith has put in place important foundations for ESR’s transformation, as we set out to serve NZ’s future needs from a rapidly changing base of science and technology.
The Board is grateful to Keith for his deep commitment to ESR, which now includes an important period of progressing ESR’s transformation, and preparing for a smooth handover.
We are looking forward to working with Keith through until his departure as we deliver a successful transition period for ESR and seek a successor who will take ESR into the next phase of transformation” she said.
ESR will continue to deliver top quality science services, research, support and advice as the organisation transitions to a new leadership.
The organisation will maintain its strong focus on making NZ communities healthier and safer, and our environment cleaner.
Recruitment for a replacement Chief Executive will begin in early 2020.