Previous Te Awanui Huka Pak Ltd chief executive John Burke is appointed general manager of the newly established Kiwifruit Vine Health Incorporated society.

KVH Inc is established to lead the kiwifruit industry's response to the Psa disease and to develop a long term pest management strategy.

John is appointed by KVH's board.

'We are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr John Burke to the role of GM,” says KVH chairman Peter McBride.

'We had a number of extremely strong candidates for the role and as a board our primary objective was to appoint an individual that would provide focused leadership for the industry.”

Key selection criteria included demonstrated leadership, operational management, financial management and a track record for building strong stakeholder relationships.

'Mr Burke has a comprehensive understanding of the industry and the broader biosecurity framework and we are confident that he will be able to drive this industry through the current issue and ensure a strong and viable future for all New Zealand kiwifruit growers.”

John is realistic about the challenges that lie ahead of him.

'I fully recognise the serious challenges that lay ahead for KVH and am exhilarated about being part of the solution for the New Zealand industry.

'Upon stepping into this role with KVH, I'd like to recognise the excellent work that has been done to date to coordinate a fast and efficient response to the identification of Psa.

'The benefits of a united industry really come to the fore at a time of crisis and set the benchmark for other industry responses.

'I am proud to be a part of this entity and to continue the great work.”

The KVH general manager role is pivotal in leading the industry's response to Psa moving forward.

John's priority is to meet with Psa-affected and non-affected growers alike, industry partners and Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry officials to fully understand the Psa situation in New Zealand and drive the industry response and grower support strategies.