New Zealand Institute of Advanced Technology - Chief Executive
About NZIAT
The New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology (NZIAT) is New Zealand's newest Public Research Organisation, established to accelerate New Zealand’s capability in advanced technologies including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, synthetic biology, and advanced materials.
With $231 million in committed funding over four years, NZIAT operates at the intersection of fundamental research and commercialisation, partnering with universities, research institutions, and industry to transform breakthrough science into economic and social impact.
NZIAT is part of an initiative to position New Zealand as a contributor to and beneficiary of the global advanced technology revolution over the next 10-20 years.
The Opportunity
The NZIAT is looking for a Chief Executive to lead them as a globally credible, investment‑led advanced technology organisation that deploys capital into high potential advanced technology initiatives with discipline and transparency and accelerates the translation of research into investable prototypes and commercial outcomes. The Chief Executive will mobilise partnerships across researchers, industry, and investors and deliver enduring national capability and economic impact for Aotearoa New Zealand.
The Chief Executive will operate confidently in global deep‑tech environments, positioning New Zealand within international research, investment, and technology ecosystems. They will balance scientific excellence with commercial pragmatism, and agility with public accountability. The role will work closely with the NZIAT Board, supporting effective governance and operating within Board‑approved strategy, risk appetite, and delegations, providing high‑quality advice and recommendations to enable the Board to make informed investment and portfolio decisions and leads execution of those decisions through NZIAT’s operating model.
Key Competencies include
Proven executive leadership and strategic capability in innovation, deep-tech or investment-led organisations, with a demonstrated ability to lead in complex political and multi-stakeholder environments
Demonstrated investment and commercial acumen, including experience leading capital allocation and portfolio management in high‑risk, high‑potential technology environments. A strong understanding of global IP regimes, licensing, venture development, and investor engagement.
Research and technology expertise with an ability to translate complex science into strategic investment and commercial opportunities
An understanding of Crown Entity governance and public accountability frameworks, and experience supporting Boards and managing Ministerial and political engagement
Personal Attributes
The right candidate for this role will be comfortable with uncertainty, ambiguity, and high‑consequence decision‑making, have strong analytical judgment and commercial discipline while building trust and confidence across researchers, investors, government, and the public.
This is an exciting opportunity at a pivotal moment in New Zealand’s innovation journey. NZIAT’s Chief Executive will shape the culture, operating model, and strategic direction as it scales.
Kerridge & Partners is managing this recruitment on behalf of NZIAT, to express your interest please contact Erin.Rapley@Kerridgepartners.com