Zespri has announced its board of directors will start searching next year for a new chief executive officer, with a view for Lain Jager's replacement to start in the role by the beginning of 2018.

Current Zespri CEO Lain Jager

Jager has been CEO of the New Zealand kiwifruit marketer since December 2008.

"The Zespri Board has set out a process for succession at an optimal time," said Zespri chairman Peter McBride.

"The timeframe helps to ensure continuity through this transition, which is important given Zespri’s critical role in the value chain for kiwifruit growers and customers globally.

"At the same time, Zespri now has an experienced and stable management team in place and the Board will consider both potential internal and external candidates for the position."

The company highlighted the industry had recovered well from vine disease Psa during Jager's tenure, and that Zespri has also delivered success with the commercialization of SunGold and expanded sales in both new and mature markets across the globe.

"Lain’s record speaks for itself. He has helped the business manage the opportunities and challenges which come with growth," McBride said.

"Global sales have nearly doubled during his tenure, and value created for growers and shareholders has increased strongly.

"Furthermore, Lain has provided strategic direction and overseen the development of Zespri’s organisational culture. Under Lain’s leadership, Zespri has strengthened our systems, policies and processes which together support the company’s globalisation and build one company with one culture. "

Jager said it was a huge privilege to work as part of the industry leadership team and with Zespri employees and partners around the world.

"I am looking forward to supporting the succession process and helping the Board of Directors in providing leadership continuity through this period," he said.

"I also am excited about the 2017 season and look forward to my final year working with growers and Zespri partners globally."

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