New Chief Executive for Investment New Zealand

The Establishment Board for Industry New Zealand has appointed Mr Don Christiansen as the new Chief Executive for the Investment Promotion Agency, (IPA) Investment New Zealand.

Attracting more of the right type of foreign direct investment is a key part of the Government's strategy to increase our economic growth rates, Establishment Board Chairman Phil Lough said today.

"We need investment that builds on our competitive advantages by bringing in technology, contacts, expertise, markets and global links."

The IPA was formed on 1 July 2002 from the integration of the Investment New Zealand section of Trade New Zealand and the Major Investment Service of Industry New Zealand, and is a key component of the Government’s business and economic development programme. Its establishment reflects a significant shift in the level of resource and priority focused on attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) by the New Zealand Government. Mr Christiansen is currently the International Executive Partner of KPMG International, based in Amsterdam. This role involves the international management of the firm, including of partners who are working offshore. He was formerly the National Chairman of KPMG New Zealand. Mr Christiansen retired as Chief Executive of KPMG International on 30 September 2001, but has some residual management responsibilities until January 2003 to assist KPMG internationally in a directorship as Chairman of the Middle East region and Director of India. He also continues to act as an advisor on corporate governance matters throughout the Asia Pacific region and to KPMG International generally.

mtc Mr Christiansen has developed a reputation for successful business development, both internationally and in New Zealand, Mr Lough said “He has excellent relationship management skills, and is able to keep his finger on the pulse of issues no matter how far away he is in geographical terms and is very focused and able to lead his staff to achieve results.” Mr Christiansen takes up his new role in February, and will be based in Auckland.

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