Meg Matthews to oversee Cawthron operations until new CEO appointed

Cawthron Board of Directors Chair Meg Matthews will oversee Cawthron operations following current Chief Executive Prof. Charles Eason’s retirement on Friday 18 December 2020.

Prof. Eason announced in October this year he would be stepping down as Chief Executive to pursue governance and other research-related opportunities. At that time, Matthews said “Charlie has grown Cawthron to where it is today, and has decided that in order to continue the momentum of the organisation it’s time for a new leader to drive the next phase of Cawthron’s growth”.

Matthews will lead operations in the role of Executive Chair, a position she has been in for the past few months to ensure a smooth leadership transition. Recruitment for a new Chief Executive for the Institute is currently underway, and it’s hoped a new leader will be in place in 2021.

Cawthron continues to focus delivering independent world-class science to support New Zealand’s primary industries to develop innovative, sustainable solutions, as well as protect our unique marine and freshwater environments.

Matthews will oversee all Cawthron operations until a new Chief Executive is onboard.

Click here to read the full statement about Prof. Eason stepping down.