Executive change at New Zealand China Council

Patrick English has stepped down as Executive Director of the New Zealand China Council after leading the organisation since it was established in 2012.

Mr English, a former trade commissioner in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou oversaw the Council’s development into a fully operational and representative body for major exporters in trade and services, Maori business and cultural leaders, government agencies and academics who engage with China.

Chairman Sir Don McKinnon says Mr English’s legacy is stronger bilateral ties and a greater understanding of China among the New Zealand public.

“Mr English has built strong high-level contacts between New Zealand and China which will deliver economic opportunities for both countries.

“He has become a central figure in New Zealand China relations and I thank him for his invaluable contribution at the helm of the Council,” Sir Don says.

A search for a new Executive Director is now underway. In the interim Stephen Jacobi has been appointed Acting Executive Director until a permanent appointment is made. Mr Jacobi is an industry and trade development specialist and was Executive Director of the NZ US Council from 2005 to 2014. He will continue in his current role as Executive Director of the NZ International Business Forum.