New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology - Chair

Overview

NZIAT will be a dedicated public research organisation (PRO) driving economic growth through advanced technology development and commercialisation.

NZIAT will first be incubated within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) before becoming an independent entity, and will take on PRO status when legislation comes into effect in July 2026.

NZIAT will fill a gap in the current system by providing leadership and coordination in New Zealand’s advanced technology research and creating stronger pathways to commercial outcomes. It will be New Zealand’s centre of expertise on advanced technology:

• Connecting world-class research teams across universities, PROs, and private sector research partners.
• Transforming technological breakthroughs into commercial success.
• Building New Zealand's knowledge and foresight capability in critical emerging technologies.
• Linking New Zealand's expertise into global technology networks and markets.
• Connecting researchers and industry to solve difficult problems.

Role of Directors

The Chair is expected to:

• Provide effective leadership and direction to the board and entity, consistent with the purpose of the entity and Ministers’ expectations.
• Ensure effective accountability and governance of the entity, consistent with the requirements of relevant legislation.
• Ensure the long-term benefit of the entity’s work, maximising commercialisation and economic outcomes, while delivering critical public good knowledge and services.
• Ensure the entity delivers on Government priorities for science innovation and technology.
• Maintain transparency between public funding and activity within the entity, including developing and implementing appropriate cost recovery models.
• Work collaboratively with the other PROs to prioritise, avoid unnecessary duplication, resolve trade-offs, and support consistency and coordination.
• Seek opportunities to boost research capability and knowledge production through consortia approaches and co-investment.
• Develop and maintain sound relationships with Ministers and their advisors including:

• • Leading any formal entity discussions with Ministers, particularly on budget and planning cycles, including the Statement of Intent and Letter of Expectations.
  • Signing off on formal governance documents (Statement of Intent, Annual Report, others), generally in conjunction with the Deputy Chair (if appointed).
  • Acting as spokesperson for the board to ensure that Ministers and other key stakeholders are aware of the board's views and activities, and that Ministers' views are communicated to the board.
  • Ensuring that Ministers are kept informed under the 'no surprises' obligations.

• Act as the leader of the entity, including presenting the entity's objectives and strategies to the public. Represent the entity to government and stakeholders, including attending any select committee appearances by the entity.
• Chair board meetings, including:

• • Setting the board agenda.
  • Ensuring there is sufficient time to cover issues.
  • Ensuring the board receives the information it needs and that contributions are made by all board members.
  • Assisting discussions towards the emergence of a consensus view and summing up so that everyone understands what has been agreed.

• Ensure appropriate policies and structures are in place to support the board.

Further, the Public Service Commission’s guidance sets out that a Crown entity director should:

• comply with the Crown Entities Act, Companies Act and other relevant legislation
• act with honesty, integrity, in good faith and not at the expense of the entity’s interests
• act with reasonable care, diligence and skill (as a ‘reasonable person’ would in the same circumstances)
• avoid disclosing information obtained in their capacity as a member, unless in specified circumstances
• provide effective leadership to the entity, consistent with the purpose of the entity and Ministers’ expectations
• provide guidance and support to the Chief Executive to ensure the entity is managed effectively
• manage risk and ensure compliance of the entity
• attend board meetings and ensure appropriate policies and structures are in place to support the entity
• provide guidance and support to other board members to ensure they contribute effectively to the governance of the entity.

Skills and experience required

At this time, the Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology is seeking candidates for the Chair role that possess the following skills and experience:

• Proven governance experience in public and/or private sector Chair roles.
• Strong leadership, strategy, and stakeholder management skills.
• Significant organisational transition experience.
• Deep interest in maximising the value of advanced technology for New Zealand’s economic prosperity.

Additional skills, experience, and attributes

In addition to the required skills, the following would be advantageous:

• Business and commercial acumen, including industry connections. 
• Commercialisation and innovation experience.
• Financial acumen, including audit and risk management expertise.
• Media and public relations experience.

How to apply

Click on the Apply now button below to complete your application. All applications must be submitted via our online process. 

Applications close midnight, Sunday 14 September 2025.

Position description - Chair

Email boardappointments@mbie.govt.nz if you have any further questions.