About The Bioeconomy Science Institute:
The Bioeconomy Science Institute is New Zealand’s newest Public Research Organisation (PRO) formed through the merger of AgResearch, Plant & Food Research, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, and Scion. The Bioeconomy Science Institute exists to power New Zealand’s transition to a circular, resilient, and prosperous bioeconomy. Through world-leading science, the Bioeconomy Science Institute drives innovation across agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology, and manufacturing.
About the Role
As a key member of the Leadership Team, the Chief Digital and Technology Officer (CDTO) will architect the Institute’s digital future and lead transformative technology strategies that enable breakthrough science. You will shape a connected, secure, and future-ready digital ecosystem that accelerates research, strengthens resilience, and delivers impact for New Zealand and globally.
- Define and execute a bold digital roadmap embedding AI, automation, and advanced analytics
- Build and integrate platforms, systems, and data environments that enable science at scale
- Lead cybersecurity strategy and governance to safeguard high-value data and research assets
- Partner with the CEO, Board, and science leaders to align digital investment with strategic priorities
- Inspire and develop a high-performing team, fostering innovation and collaboration across the organisation
Background, Skills & Experience
The ideal candidate is a senior, visionary technology leader with a track record of delivering transformation at scale. They will think beyond systems and infrastructure and see technology as a catalyst for new possibilities – shaping science, people, and innovation to solve the world’s toughest challenges.
- Demonstrated ability to define and deliver a bold digital strategy on a global scale, that anticipates future scientific and technological breakthroughs, inspiring diverse stakeholders to unite behind a shared vision.
- Deep expertise in AI, machine learning, automation, advanced data platforms, and cloud ecosystems, with a track record of applying these to accelerate discovery and transform organisational performance.
- Extensive experience leading large, multi-site, multi-stakeholder environments, ideally in science, research, or technology sectors, with the agility to convert complexity into opportunity and impact.
- Mastery of digital governance, cyber resilience, and high-value data stewardship, operating to the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and public trust.
- A reputation for building high-performing, inclusive teams, cultivating leaders at every level, and fostering a culture of innovation, equity, and collaboration.
- Skilled at bridging science, technology, policy, iwi/Māori partners, and industry, while influencing effectively at executive, Board, and ministerial levels on a global stage.
This is a rare and meaningful opportunity to help lead one of the world’s largest publicly owned primary sector and environmental science institutions, positioning Aotearoa New Zealand at the forefront of bioeconomy innovation, driving sustainable, inclusive, and digitally empowered outcomes for current and future generations.
Location: Preferred locations are: Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, Palmerston North, Wellington or Lincoln
Full-time
Apply now via Seek (Chief Digital and Technology Officer), or for more information please contact Lucinda Beamish at Hobson Leavy Executive Search: beamish@hobsonleavy.com
Applications close on 14 September 2025
