Executive Management Team

Warren Parker Chief Executive Officer Warren joined Scion in March 2011 as Chief Executive Officer. Before taking on his role at Scion, Warren headed Crown Research Institute Landcare Research Ltd for 5 ½ years. He has a strong track record in scientific leadership and substantial experience in building productive science-industry relationships.

Russell Burton General Manager Research & Investments Russell has oversight of the New Zealand Government investment into Scion to ensure maximum value to New Zealand and to Scion. This includes investments through the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology, the CRI Capability Fund, the FRST Pre-seed Fund and similar. Russell is also responsible for Scion’s Stage Gate TM process to optimise management of Scion’s commercialisation process.

Elspeth MacRae General Manager Manufacturing and Bioproducts Elspeth MacRae is the Executive who leads the Bioproduct Development business and science area which includes all Scion’s wood and fibre processing as well as biorefinery, biodiscovery and bioplastic activities.

Brian Richardson General Manager Forest Science In his role as General Manager, Forest Science, Brian oversees research relating to forest growing including forest genetics, management (growth modelling, resource assessment, wood quality), environment / sustainability, and protection (biosecurity, health, fire) activities.

Trevor Stuthridge General Manager Sustainable Design Trevor has been Scion’s Group Manager for Sustainable Design since 2008.  He was previously Unit Leader - Eco-Smart Technologies at Scion; a research team developing technologies for the treatment of industrial waste streams and their transformation and/or modification into added value products.

Keri-Anne Tane General Manager People and Performance Keri-Anne joined Scion early October 2009, coinciding with a return to Rotorua after 18 years.  During her time away from Rotorua, Keri-Anne completed her Bachelor of Business, majoring in Human Resource Management, and then developed her HR career across a range of industries.

Rob Trass Chief Financial Officer Rob has been with Scion since November 2005. He was initially employed as Scion’s management accountant before moving into the role of Finance Manager, then Group Manager Finance and finally Chief Financial Officer.

Steve Sopora General Manager, Business Development and Commercialisation Steve moved from Canada in September 2012 to join Scion as General Manager, Business Development and Commercialisation.