Two new Trustees join Cawthron Institute’s Trust Board 

Allan grew up in Nelson and during his early years had an association with Cawthron, which grew out of his interest in biological science and his early career as a scientist. For the past ten years Allan has been Chief Executive of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and has been instrumental in growing the EPA from its early phase as a developing regulator to one now respected by the environmental sector.

“With over 30 years of experience in business, public, and not-for-profit sectors, I want to share what I have learnt with Cawthron. Science research has never been so critical to our future as it is now. As well as contributing to the economy it provides hope for the future,” said Allan.

Tom’s career has spanned policy, finance, law and risk. Most recently he was the General Manager Sustainable Performance at Kiwibank. He is deeply connected to the Te Tauihu community with roles in each of the Nelson Marlborough Conservation Board and member of Land Search & Rescue Nelson.

“My career has always been connected to enhancing our use of the natural capital, both physical and knowledge-based, that Aotearoa has,” said Tom.

Lindsay McKenzie, Chair of the Cawthron Institute Trust Board, welcomed both Trustees to their first meeting in February.

“The skills of our new Trustees will help ensure Cawthron’s science continues to deliver solutions that support the aspirations of Te Tauihu and Aotearoa New Zealand. Bold science is critical to our future and I am confident that the appointment of these Trustees will help Cawthron’s ability to undertake highly impactful and innovative research that tackles the challenges that we face today.”

Allan and Tom filled vacancies that were created following the retirements of John Palmer and Sarah-Jane Weir, both of whom have been valuable contributors to the Trust Board.

CAWTHRON’S GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE:

Cawthron Institute is owned by a charitable trust, established in accordance with the Thomas Cawthron Trust Act 1924. In keeping with the original Act, the Trust includes the Member of Parliament for Nelson electorate, the Mayor of Tasman District, the Mayor of Nelson, the Anglican Bishop and an Iwi Member appointment. These Trustees appoint six additional trustees, who bring scientific and business expertise to the Trust.

The Trust appoints Cawthron Institute’s governing Board of Directors, who establish Cawthron’s strategic objectives and policy framework, and appoint the Chief Executive.

Find out more about Cawthron’s governance here.