Marie Fitzpatrick has been named Rural Women New Zealand’s new chief executive.

Her appointment, announced by the board of Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ), will begin on July 1.

RWNZ national president Gill Naylor said having Marie on board would have great benefit to the organisation.

“She comes from a rural background, having spent some of her childhood in Central Otago and has an eclectic CV, which will benefit the diverse range of work Rural Women New Zealand is involved in.”

Marie brings several decades of experience in and around the public sector to the role, most recently in the leadership team at Fisheries New Zealand in the Ministry for Primary Industries.

The attributes Marie has built on within those roles would be of great benefit to the organisation’s government advocacy work, Gill said.

“Likewise, charitable community service is another strand of our work and Marie has a wealth of knowledge in this area as co-founder of the Good Bitches Baking Charitable Trust. Her experience growing the charity from a few friends baking for the community to a nationwide network of more than 3000 volunteers will be invaluable as we continue on our journey to grow our membership.”

Marie said she was excited to be moving into the role.

“I am passionate about building a sense of community, equity and supporting the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders,” she said.

“I feel really honoured to be given the opportunity to lead Rural Women New Zealand into its centenary year and beyond, as we continue to make a positive impact in our rural communities.”

Gill thanked outgoing chief executive Gabrielle O’Brien for her significant contribution to the organisation over the past three years.

“Thanks to Gabe’s dedication and commitment, the organisation is in a much stronger position to tackle the future.”

To learn more about the various branches of Rural Women New Zealand within Central, visit The Central App's Groups | Clubs page.