Science New Zealand congratulates inaugural CEO

Science New Zealand congratulates inaugural CEO of Ministry of Science & Innovation

Science New Zealand congratulates Murray Bain on his appointment as the inaugural Chief Executive of the Ministry of Science & Innovation (MSI). MSI amalgamates the current Ministry and the Foundation of Research, Science & Technology (MoRST and FRST).

Science New Zealand chairman, John Morgan, said:

“Today’s announcement is a major step in the reforms flowing from the Neville Jordan Taskforce. The Government is moving with speed to implement its message that change is required from government itself, as well as from Crown Research Institutes and end users of science.

“The Ministry of Science & Innovation will for the first time bring together policy, funding, knowledge transfer and oversight of CRIs. Having the CEO-designate in place will ensure the new Ministry is set to go once the enabling legislation is passed by Parliament.

“Murray Bain is an excellent choice. He brings a wealth of public and private sector experience, and of course was a member of the Jordan Taskforce. So he has the ideal background to hit the ground running in his new role.

“He takes on a task of tremendous importance to New Zealand. Science is a critical component of innovation, and innovation is the source of the nation’s wealth and well-being.

“It is a task that we all share. MSI is a declaration that things can and must be done better, more simply and with greater impact for New Zealand. Science New Zealand is committed to joining in this task with Government, other science researchers and sectors throughout New Zealand.”

Science New Zealand promotes the value of science and technology for New Zealand. Its Board comprises the CEOs of the 8 Crown Research Institutes which collectively employ 4,500 staff, with annual revenues of $675 million. Two-thirds of the nation’s publically-funded science researchers, outside health and IT, work at CRIs.

The Crown Research Institutes undertake research for government and private sector markets in New Zealand and abroad. They also provide the essential underlying capability in people, facilities and knowledge for the long term future of science and innovation in New Zealand.

The Crown Research Institutes are: AgResearch, ESR, GNS Science, IRL, Landcare Research, NIWA, Plant & Food Research, and Scion.

ENDS

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