Chris Claridge, the company’s chief executive, has resigned, according to Stuart Wright, the board chair of Potatoes New Zealand Incorporated.

Since taking on the position seven years ago, Claridge has significantly changed how the company runs. He has now moved a variety of operational and technical services in-house, and the amount of levy money allocated to research and development has increased significantly.

“Dear Grower Members,

We are writing to inform you of the resignation of PNZ’s Chief Executive, Chris Claridge.

Chris has been in his role for seven years and has significantly changed the way the organization operates. During this time, he has brought several operational and technical services in-house and there has been a significant increase in levy money dedicated to research and development.

The chair and board appreciate the achievements of the organization during Chris’ tenure and wish him well in his next endeavors. He will stay on as chief executive until the end of April.

The board also reminds grower members that the levy order vote will be held in mid-2024, with dates to be confirmed. By that time there will be a new CEO and a new Chair, due to board rotations.

The board considers this refresh in 2023 to be a timely opportunity for the organization to successfully support the NZ Potato Industry in the next levy order period.

Yours sincerely,

Stuart Wright,

Chair of Potatoes New Zealand Incorporated, on behalf of the board.”

According to a recent organizational press release, the chair and board appreciate the achievements of the organization during Claridge’s tenure and wish him well for his next endeavors.

“Claridge has not announced his plans but indicates he is excited at the opportunities in front of him. He will stay on as chief executive until the end of April,” the release concludes.