Brent Kleiss appointed NZPork chief executive

Kleiss joined NZPork as policy manager in July 2021, bringing widespread experience in the primary sector to the role.

Prior to his work with NZPork, Kleiss spent 13 years working for the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), most recently as principal advisor – stakeholder and industry engagement for public affairs.

He also acted as chief quarantine officer at MPI for five years.

NZPork chairman Eric Roy says Kleiss is already a familiar face for many in the pork industry and the wider primary sector.

“Since joining NZPork, Brent has impressed us with his skills and strategi insight in a range of areas,” says Roy.

“We look forward to him making a valuable contribution to NZPork, especially as we face significant regulatory reform associated with farrowing crates and mating stalls and the environment.”

Kleiss says he is looking forward to meeting more members of the pork sector.

“I’ve already met a number of our farmers and it’s clear to me how much they care about their animals, their products and their communities. I’m also proud of the opportunity to lead the great team at NZPork,” he says.

Kleiss officially takes on the CEO role on 2 May.