People

 

Trustees

 

Ian WrightProfessor Ian Wright (Chair)

Ian is Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at the University of Canterbury, where he is responsible for strategic leadership and overall academic performance of the University and in particular, maintaining and advancing the University’s research profile, and the development of research collaborations.

Paul Bennett Dr Paul Bennett

Paul is the Science Leader for Clean Technologies at Scion. Paul has over 25 years experience in a variety of roles developing new technologies and business opportunities in biofuels. His team at Scion are investigating new economic opportunities in industrial biorefining, bioenergies and bio-based substitutes for petrochemicals.

Michael Jack Associate Professor Michael Jack

Michael is the co-convenor of the Otago Energy Research Centre, a large multidisciplinary network of energy researchers at the University of Otago. He is also an Associate Professor in the Physics Department and the Director of its Energy Programme.

Gary WilsonHon. Professor Gary Wilson

Gary is the General Manager, Strategy and Chief Scientist at GNS Science. He is responsible for its science, research and innovation strategies and contributes to developing its overall strategic direction and investment. He retains the position of Honorary Professor in Marine Science at the University of Otago.

Tina SchirrTina Schirr

Tina is the Executive Director of the BusinessNZ Energy Council (the New Zealand member committee of the World Energy Council). She is responsible for the development of policy on matters relating to energy, transport and innovation. Her work includes the management of BEC’s cross-sector energy scenarios and the World Energy Council’s tools such as the Energy Trilemma Index, Energy Issue Maps and other energy innovation projects.

 

 

 

 

Chief Executive

 

Simon ArnoldSimon Arnold

Simon is part-time at NERI. In the balance of his time he is MD of arnold.co.nz, Executive Director of Blended Fuel Solutions NZ Ltd and Nufuels Ltd, and convener of the Liquid Biofuels Interest Group of the Bioenergy Association of NZ.  He has had senior roles in public policy and been active in business organisations including running the NZ Manufacturers Federation.

 

Hon. Treasurer

 

Gerry CarringtonProfessor Gerry Carrington

Gerry is an Emeritus Professor of the University of Otago, and was a founding trustee of NERI and past Chair. He continues his involvement as Hon. Treasurer.