NZ Shipping Federation executive director Annabel Young is leaving after six and a half years in the role.
Young says it was a unique position at the centre of an important link in the New Zealand supply chain. However, “it is time to start afresh somewhere”.
“I am looking for contract work and there seems to be a lot of opportunity in the Wellington market,” she says.
“Groups that represent members are a vital part of the New Zealand democracy.
“A well run peak membership body that is well connected to its members can make a real difference to the outcomes and benefits to members and to the whole community.
“Politicians and officials need organisations like the Federation and the Road Transport Forum,” Young says.
“A highlight of the role is being taken to heart by the members and trusted by them. We have made a number of breakthroughs. Sadly, we are still waiting for news of a dry dock,” she says.
Young is a former National Party list MP and prior to her role at the Shipping Federation she worked in the office of Judith Collins before the 2014 election.
She has also been the chief executive at Federated Farmers and at the Pharmacy Guild and is the author of ‘The Good Lobbyist’s Guide’ which details the most effective ways for citizens to become involved in the political process.
NZ Shipping Federation president Clive Glover says the industry recognises the contribution Young has made in “raising both the profile and the importance to New Zealand of a strong and effective domestic coastal shipping service”.
He said Young has been an effective lobbyist and has raised the profile of coastal shipping with the regulator, government and the relevant ministries.
“Federation members thank her for her service to the industry and wish her well for the future,” Glover says.
Young’s last day in the role is May 24. Members will have a council meeting this week to discuss how they wish to move forward with the executive director position.
The New Zealand Shipping Federation is the key representative body for New Zealand’s coastal ship operators.
Its members include Coastal Bulk Shipping, Coastal Oil Logistics, Holcim, InterIslander, NIWA, Swire/Pacifica, Silver Fern Shipping, StraitNZ – Bluebridge, Cook Strait Ferries and Cook Strait Ferries.
