The head of the NZ Stock Exchange (NZX), Mark Peterson, has resigned and will leave in April next year after close to a decade in the position.
He said he was close to achieving certain projects aimed at developing and bringing growth for the company, and it was an appropriate time to be going.
“The company is in a strong position financially, including NZX Wealth Technologies now being cashflow positive from external client activity.
“NZX has an experienced and talented senior management team, is operating up-to-date and secure technology infrastructure and has a positive organisational culture and relationships with customers, stakeholders and shareholders.
“This demonstrates the time is right for me to stand down and for the NZX board to appoint a new chief executive to lead NZX into the future and continue to deliver its strategic priorities.”
Peterson said giving such advance warning would allow a smooth transition and give plenty of time to search for a new chief executive.
He joined NZX in 2015 as the head of its markets operations, was appointed acting chief executive in January 2017 and confirmed in that position in April 2017. His term was extended in August 2023.
NZX chairperson John McMahon said Peterson had been an exceptional leader of NZX.
“He is a highly effective all-round performer who has calmly and ably led the NZX Group through some challenging and volatile times.
“Mark has also built strong relationships in New Zealand and internationally, in particular the business partnerships we have with the Singapore Stock Exchange and the European Energy Exchange.”
Peterson counted the launch of NZX’s anonymous mid-point trading venue, NZX Dark, its equity futures products, and the expansion of its wealth management business, Smart, as key achievements.
He said he believed he still had another executive role in him but did not have any firm plans other than taking a break.
rnz.co.nz
