Royal Society of NZ acknowledges outgoing Chief Executive

14 February 2014

Royal Society of New Zealand acknowledges contribution of outgoing Chief Executive

The Council of the Royal Society of New Zealand wishes to acknowledge the exceptional contribution of Dr Di McCarthy, who will retire from her position as Chief Executive on 30 June.

The Royal Society is New Zealand’s national academy of science, technology, and the humanities. Its functions include promoting and recognising excellence in research and scholarship, awarding funding for research in all disciplines, assisting early career researchers with scholarships and awards, supporting science education in schools, promoting international collaboration, publishing New Zealand's science journals, and providing independent advice to government and the community.

Royal Society of New Zealand President, Sir David Skegg, says over the last seven years Dr McCarthy has played a key role in transforming the Royal Society into one of the most successful national academies in any small country and the Council accepted her decision with regret.

“She has raised the profile of the organisation, strengthened its financial position, and promoted a number of new initiatives, such as the establishment of the Rutherford Foundation Trust.

“Her nurture and support of young scientists has been notable, and she assisted in broadening the scope of the Society to include the humanities - as was the case in the early days following its establishment in 1867.

“The fact that New Zealand has been chosen to host the assembly of the world's scientific academies (ICSU) later this year - the first time this major congress has been held in this part of the world - is directly due to Dr McCarthy’s advocacy and leadership.”

Over six years Dr McCarthy led the site development at the Society’s national headquarters.

“This culminated in the opening of an award-winning building in Wellington which will be a superb work space and meeting venue for years to come.

“Anyone who knows Dr McCarthy will be aware that her achievements have resulted from exceptional energy, flair and commitment. We thank her for her outstanding contribution.”

An executive search consultant has been appointed to assist in the search for a new Chief Executive for the Society.

About the Royal Society of New Zealand
The Royal Society of New Zealand promotes science, technology and humanities in schools, in industry and in society. We administer funds for research, publish peer-reviewed journals, offer advice to government, and foster international scientific contact and co-operation.www.royalsociety.org.nz

ENDS

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