Unexpected resignation of IRL chief executive

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Shaun Coffey

Statement by IRL chief executive officer Shaun Coffey:

After careful reflection, I have decided to pursue new career directions. In the last week the position of Industrial Research Ltd (IRL) as a significant contributor to the NZ innovation system has been further acknowledged through a series of Awards and Medals, including one of the PM’s Science Prizes. IRL is now well recognised for its work with industry. I am confident that I will be leaving IRL in a sound state and well positioned for the future.

I will step down on the 31st of January next.

There are very many people I must thank for the assistance and support they have provided as we have reinvented IRL over the last six-and-a-half years. Successive Boards have provided guidance and direction and I thank all present and past Directors for their work for the company.

A special thanks must go to my work colleagues – especially my senior executive. The collective knowledge and abilities of our people, and their intense desire to put science to work for New Zealand, are constant sources of inspiration and motivation. It has been my profound privilege to serve them, and through them to serve New Zealand.

The establishment of the new agency, Callaghan Innovation, is a major challenge and I pass on my best wishes to all involved in achieving a successful outcome.

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