Director

The Ag Emissions Centre

The Ag Emissions Centre's mission is accelerating evidence-led solutions for low-emissions farming. We support research from foundational science through to enabling on-farm adoption with the aim to make available to New Zealand farmers and growers practical and cost-effective technologies and practices to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.

The Ag Emissions Centre is nearing the halfway point of a five-year, $150 million funding commitment from Government via the Ministry for Primary Industries. The Governance Group oversees the operation of this nationally important science mission. A position on the Group has become available as one of the members completes their term.

For this position, we are seeking a director who will bring strong governance capability alongside deep insight into how complex science is translated, communicated, and adopted in real‑world agricultural settings.

Applicant location: National

Term: 3 years

Time commitment: Approximately 1-2 days per month; 6 meetings per year, combination of in person and online

Remuneration:$1400 per day pro-rated to support meeting time and preparation

Key Requirements for the Role

The successful candidate will:

• Bring governance experience, or at a minimum have worked closely with boards and clearly understand the distinction between governance and management.
• Have led, or held senior responsibility within, a marketing, communications, or engagement function, ideally within a science, research, R&D, or the primary sector.
• Have been directly involved in the governance or management of research, innovation, or development activity, with a strong understanding of what world‑class science and R&D delivery entails.
• Be science‑literate, able to engage confidently with greenhouse gas mitigation research and underpinning concepts, even if not a technical specialist.
• Offer informed challenge around portfolio management, investment decisions, and pathways to impact, including public value and return on public investment.
• Ideally bring insight into areas such as greenhouse gas policy, artificial intelligence, knowledge management, or digital platforms used in contemporary research organisations.

Personal Characteristics

• Motivated by the role of applied science in supporting New Zealand's climate and agricultural aspirations.
• Open, curious, well‑prepared, and skilled at asking thoughtful, sometimes challenging questions that strengthen decision‑making.
• Comfortable operating as a constructive challenger while remaining positive, respectful, and collegial.
• Demonstrates high integrity and a strong appreciation of the responsibilities associated with public funding and public trust.
• Brings a grounded understanding of, or connection to, farming and rural communities, with empathy for the realities farmers face.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience by the closing date of Monday 15 June 2026.

For a confidential discussion, contact Moana Temel, Director - Niche Recruitment.

M: 021 499 902 | E: ***email_hidden***