Tuesday, 29 October 2002

 FOOD STANDARDS AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND CHIEF EXECUTIVE TO STAND DOWN

Mr Ian Lindenmayer has advised the Board of Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) of his decision not to be an applicant for the position of Chief Executive of the organisation, the Chairman of FSANZ Mr Rob Knowles said today.

Mr Lindenmayer has been the interim Chief Executive of FSANZ as part of the transitional arrangements for the establishment of FSANZ from 1 July this year. He was the Managing Director of its predecessor body, the Australia New Zealand Food Authority (ANZFA) for over four years.

'The Board has recently commenced the process for appointing the Chief Executive and I know Ian has been considering the challenges of leading the new organisation weighed against his long held belief that five years is generally the appropriate length of service for an effective chief executive,' Mr Knowles said.

'Therefore while disappointed, I understand and accept his decision.

'The Boards of both ANZFA and FSANZ are greatly indebted to Ian for his outstanding leadership over the almost five years he has led the food standards body.

' At the time of his appointment, ANZFA faced very considerable challenges and Ian has, through his leadership, built an internationally respected food standards authority.

'He has overseen the successful development and implementation of the joint food code for Australia and New Zealand.

'Again as a result of Ian's leadership, FSANZ has a dedicated and highly skilled team of people that ensures our food standards are based on good science and that the primary focus is on the public health and safety of Australians and New Zealanders.

'Ian has willingly agreed to continue until a new Chief Executive is appointed thus ensuring the continued effective operation of FSANZ and the smooth transition of leadership,' Mr Knowles said.