New Callaghan Board Chair appointed

Research, Science and Innovation Minister Megan Woods today has announced that Pete Hodgson has been appointed as the new Chair of the Callaghan Innovation Board.

Callaghan Innovation is the government’s business innovation agency and offers a number of services aimed at accelerating the commercialisation of research.

“I’m delighted that Mr Hodgson has agreed to use his extensive knowledge and experience in science and technology-based innovation to lead the Board and provide strategic direction to Callaghan Innovation.

“As a former Minister of Research, Science and Technology, and Chief Executive of Otago Innovation, Mr Hodgson is well qualified for the role and has the credibility to continue to build the agency’s reputation with the wider innovation community.

“This Government backs innovation as key part of a growing and stable economy. We know it’s the key to a fairer economy with higher wage jobs. In his new role, Pete will play an important role in helping Kiwi businesses to innovate and compete on the world stage.

“I want to thank outgoing Chair Sue Suckling for her considerable work over the last five years in leading the establishment and growth of the agency.

“Through her work as Chair, Ms Suckling has been a driving force in connecting hundreds of Kiwi businesses to the networks, capability and funding they need to make their ideas happen,” says Megan Woods.

Mr Hodgson will commence his new role on 1 April 2018, for a period of three years.

Note for Editors:

Peter Hodgson is a former Cabinet Minister (New Zealand Government 1999 –2008) governing a variety of portfolios included Research, Science and Technology; Economic Development; and Commerce. Following a period on the Board of Otago Innovation Limited (OIL), Peter was appointed Chief Executive of the company in 2014. OIL is responsible for supporting University of Otago researchers in developing and commercialising their intellectual property.

Peter is also the New Zealand Independent Chair with the Australia and New Zealand Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching. He has a Bachelor's degree in Veterinary Science from Massey University and a Master’s degree in Public Policy (with Distinction) from Victoria University of Wellington.

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