The New Zealand Institute of Building (NZIOB) has a new National President, construction industry executive Graeme Birkhead.

Mr. Birkhead took up the role of National President at the NZIOB’s Annual General Meeting on 15 June, and succeeds Grant Harris who will remain on the board as Immediate Past President.

Graeme Birkhead has over 30 years’ experience in the building sector. He is a director of Graeme Birkhead Consulting, and has considerable governance experience. He is a board member of the Property Council of New Zealand’s Auckland Branch and an advisory board member of the Auckland Council Urban Design Panel.

Until 2015, Graeme had spent the bulk of his construction career at Arrow International, including 20 years as their Northern Director. Prior to joining Arrow, he worked with internationally acclaimed OVE ARUP & Partners, Consulting Engineers, in London.

He has a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) from University of Auckland Engineering School and began his career with Fletcher Construction.

NZIOB chief executive Malcolm Fleming said, “Graeme is a highly regarded construction sector leader with experience in the UK and New Zealand. He has led major projects including large scale housing developments, business parks, manufacturing facilities, infrastructure works and public-sector facilities”.

“Graeme is wanting to raise the NZIOB’s profile, expand its work programme and grow its membership, with a particular focus on engaging younger construction practitioners. I look forward to working with Graeme and his council to further these objectives this year and beyond and congratulate him on his appointment as National President,” summarised Fleming.