Graham Smith steps down as Chief Executive of Soda Inc.

Graham Smith steps down as Chief Executive of Soda Inc.

Graham Smith announced this morning that he will be stepping down as Chief Executive of SODA Inc. to take up the Chief Executive position at Federated Farmers New Zealand.

“This is not something I expected when I took the role at SODA Inc. The role of a lifetime arose, which meant I had to make a very difficult decision to step down,” said Mr Smith.

“The reality is that incubation is critical for both the regional and national economy, and I believe in what SODA Inc. is doing, particularly due to the quality of its staff,” he said.

SODA Inc. Chair Julian Elder said SODA has built strong incubation skills over the last four years and established its reputation locally and on the international scene. The Board is now reviewing its options to ensure this work continues.

“The Board was very pleased with the calibre of candidates that applied for the Chief Executive position and is commencing a process to replace Graham,” said Mr Elder.

“We have put in place processes to ensure that there is no disruption to SODA's growth plans and the growth of new start-ups in the Waikato.”

Smith will be spending a considerable amount of time in the Waikato in his new role and is keen to continue working with SODA Inc. when the opportunity arises.

Smith finishes with SODA Inc. in late July.

ENDS

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