Computerworld

Callaghan Innovation CEO Mary Quin resigns

Inaugural Callaghan Innovation chief executive to finish up at the end of July

The inaugural CEO of government R&D agency Callaghan Innovation, Mary Quin, has resigned, saying the time is ripe for the organisation to appoint new leadership.

Her last day will be 31 July. Callaghan recently joined the board of Westpac New Zealand.

“This is the ideal transition point for new leadership, and gives me the flexibility to pursue other professional and personal interests both in New Zealand and overseas,” Quin said in a statement issued by Callaghan Innovation.

The agency’s board is in the process of appointing an interim chief executive and starting the search for a permanent replacement.

“As the inaugural CEO, Mary provided the leadership and vision the organisation needed through its start-up phase and has established an enduring foundation for its future,” said Robin Hapi, Callaghan Innovation deputy chair.

Callaghan Innovation was formed in February 2013 by combining the former crown research institute IRL, MBIE’s business investments team, the Auckland Foodbowl, and NZTE's Lean Manufacturing programme. At the time it was described by science and innovation minister Stephen Joyce as “a one-stop shop for business innovation support whether it be in science, engineering, design or technology ... [and] a high-tech HQ for New Zealand businesses.”

At launch it had 400 staff and offices in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

Quin’s appointment was announced in May that year with Callaghan Innovation describing her as “an exceptional New Zealander with an impressive track record of working in the US engineering and technology sector”.

Quin came to the role with a background in R&D in materials engineering and over 20 years’ experience working in senior executive roles in NASDAQ-listed companies such as Xerox and Eastman Kodak Company, Callaghan Innovation said.