Volker Kuntzsch was previously CEO at Sanford Ltd.
Cawthron Institute has announced that Volker Kuntzsch has been appointed as chief executive.
Kuntsch was previously CEO for seven years at New Zealand seafood company, Sanford Ltd.
Cawthron Institute has been searching for a successor for former chief executive Professor Charles Eason following his retirement at the end of 2020.
Chair Meg Matthews said Kuntzsch is joining the organisation at an exciting time, as Cawthron celebrates 100 years of delivering world-class science this year.
“We believe Volker is the perfect fit to ensure our research programmes continue to support New Zealand’s sustainable economic growth, thanks to his proven track record in delivering strong commercial performance coupled with his environmental and sustainability focus,” Matthews said. “He is a leader who is passionate and supportive, values driven, has deep integrity and a love of science”.
Kuntzsch has a distinguished international career in the seafood industry spanning more than 30 years. He was formerly the president of Nippon Suisan (USA), and president and CEO of King & Prince Seafood Corp (USA), before joining Sanford as CEO in 2013. He has also held senior executive roles in Tokyo, Namibia, Germany and the UK, and holds a MSc from the University of Stellenbosch.
Kuntzsch said he was excited about moving to Nelson Tasman with his family and looked forward to leading New Zealand’s largest independent science organisation.
Not only is Cawthron celebrating 100 years of science and innovation this year with a programme of community activities; Matthews said the organisation is also making significant investment into its research infrastructure and facilities in Te Tau Ihu.
“With Volker at the helm, Cawthron is well placed to advance more economic outcomes for Te Tau Ihu and Aotearoa through its impactful science, alongside restoring and protecting our unique environment,” Matthews said.
Kuntzsch will join the organisation on Monday March 1, 2021.
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