Wairarapa leader tackles water advocacy

Irrigation New Zealand chair Keri Johnston says she’s pleased to announce the appointment of Karen Williams to CEO, effective 24 February.

Karen Williams.

“Karen brings a wealth of experience into the role, including a background in resource management, agriculture and farming, notable awards for her achievements and wide recognition for her leadership skills.”

Williams comes to the executive role after two and a half years as national client propositions manager at rural insurer FMG. 

She’s excited about the new challenge and sees the move as a natural progression to her career.

“Having held other executive and board roles, this is an opportunity for me to combine my skills and experience, while also allowing me to help advocate for a sector I’m passionate about. There are synergies with the work I’ve been doing at FMG too – we’re both about getting better outcomes for farmers, growers and rural communities and that includes wider water users too.”

In addition to her executive experience, Williams runs her own irrigated farm with husband Mick, comprising 560 ha in mixed crop, beef and lamb finishing. 

Her general love for what she does has seen her make strong connections across both the farming sector and political spectrum.

Keri Johnston says her appointment to CEO comes at an interesting time.

“It’s a critical time for NZ in terms of how we safeguard our water for different uses, so getting Karen at the helm now is timely for advocating the best direction for irrigation in NZ.”

Williams is a former national vice president and national board member of Federated Farmers; chaired the national Arable Industry Group; and helped guide the Ministry for Primary Industries response to the Wairarapa pea weevil incursion in 2016, which resulted in eradication. 

She has also worked in policy planning with Greater Wellington Regional Council and Hutt City Council. 

Williams replaces Vanessa Winning, who spent four years as chief executive of Irrigation NZ before joining MPI as director of export growth late last year.