1 May 2009 - Ian Barbour, Chair of Textiles New Zealand, today announced that Elizabeth Tennet had been appointed Chief Executive and will take up her new role as from Monday 11 May 2009.

"The Board of Textiles New Zealand is delighted that it has employed a person of Elizabeth's calibre to lead the organisation," said Ian Barbour. "She has a strong economic development background both nationally and regionally and a very good understanding of the issues facing the textiles manufacturing sector in New Zealand. We are confident that she will rapidly establish a key leadership role in advancing the textiles industry, addressing the real challenges and opportunities it faces transforming it into a vibrant and growing sector."

The Textiles New Zealand Board believes that with the resources it now has the organisation can not only meet the day to day needs of the industry but also provide the strong leadership that Elizabeth will bring to the position to facilitate industry growth.

Elizabeth has in recent years held senior positions with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), has operated her own business and was the MP for Island Bay for three terms.