Fish & Game has appointed Martin Taylor as its next chief executive. He takes over from long serving head, Bryce Johnson.
Fish & Game says Taylor has wide experience in the corporate sector, including as chief executive of the Aged Care Association. He has also been chair of the Wellington Fish & Game council and is presently working for the Capital Coast DHB as a project manager.
Fish & Game’s New Zealand Council chair Lindsay Lyons says Taylor’s the right person for the demanding role.
“He’s highly qualified, an experienced leader and politically astute,” Lyons says.
“He’s also a mad keen angler and loves the outdoors and New Zealand’s wild places, so from our point of view, this is a perfect combination. We are delighted to have him on board.”
Lyons says there was huge interest in the role.
“We were humbled by the large number of high quality applicants who wanted to continue the fabulous work Bryce Johnson has done protecting our environment and water quality.
“That fight for the environment isn’t over and there are huge challenges ahead, but with Martin’s appointment, Fish & Game is well placed to meet them.”
Taylor says he is delighted with his new role.
“I am honoured to have been appointed to such an important and high profile position. I am determined to make sure New Zealand’s rivers, lakes and streams are swimmable, fishable and safe to gather food from,” Taylor says.
“I am also committed to ensuring that kiwi families retain their access to the outdoors so our children can grow up enjoying our unique mountains, bush and waterways.”
Taylor will be taking up his new role in early November. Johnson is retiring in October after 37 years leading Fish & Game and its predecessor, the Acclimatisation Societies’ national body.