New ministry chief executives named

Murray Bain. Photo / Supplied

Research, Science and Technology Foundation chief executive Murray Bain will take over the reins at the new Ministry of Science and Innovation, State Services Commissioner Iain Rennie says.

Mr Bain will become the ministry's first chief executive, after its creation was announced in June.

Mr Rennie said Mr Bain, who was also assistant governor head of operations at the Reserve Bank, had experience successfully leading organisations through major periods of change.

He will take up his new appointment on November 1.

Wayne McNee, current head of the Ministry of Fisheries, has also been appointed chief executive and director-general of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

He will replace current chief executive Murray Sherwin, whose term expires this year.

Mr Rennie said in his current role Mr McNee had taken the lead in reforming New Zealand's aquaculture law.

Before his current role, Mr McNee was chief executive of drug-buying agency Pharmac for five years.

Mr McNee's term at the ministry is for five years and will begin on November 20.

- NZPA