OSPRI chief executive Steve Stuart has resigned after five years in the role.
The board extended its gratitude to Stuart for his “unwavering leadership”, navigating OSPRI through a transformative strategic phase and a significant period of organisational growth.
Chair Paul Reynolds said during Stuart’s tenure, he expertly restored OSPRI’s standing as a trusted partner in the biosecurity network and strengthened its role as an integrated disease management agency.
“Mr Stuart’s accomplishments include enhancing relationships and trust with shareholders, iwi and Māori, stakeholders and other predator management agencies, managing a significant disease outbreak and driving down the number of TB infected herds to its lowest level on record,” Reynolds said.
“He decentralised OSPRI’s operating model and built a strong organisational capability and workplace culture and led the transition of the M bovis Programme to OSPRI under a Government Industry Agreement.
“Mr Stuart was also instrumental in the development of technology infrastructure that will deliver tangible benefit to farmers in the future.
“Undoubtedly, he leaves OSPRI in a more resilient and strengthened position. He has strategically positioned the organisation for the incoming chief executive to build upon the established foundation, ensuring continued stability and growth for OSPRI,” Reynolds said.
During the remaining period of his tenure, Stuart will work with the board to sustain the momentum and execution of OSPRI’s programmes of work and strategic commitments.
Opting not to pursue another full-time role, Stuart looks forward to spending quality time with his family, in New Zealand and overseas, while pursuing a range of professional and personal interests.
“The board will promptly initiate the recruitment process for the new chief executive, and Stuart’s final date at OSPRI will be determined to facilitate a seamless transition for the incoming chief executive,” Reynolds said.
