Zespri has appointed Peter Springford as an independent director, replacing long-serving board member David Pilkington, effective May.
Mr Pilkington - who is also chairman of Port of Tauranga, Rangatira and Heller, and a director of Tuatara Brewing, Douglas Pharmaceuticals, Northport and PrimePort Timaru - has been on the Zespri board since 2005.
"I have been privileged to be involved with a cohesive industry that has worked together to overcome serious challenges, particularly with Psa, and is now on track to deliver impressive growth and transformation," said Mr Pilkington. "The industry's outlook is very bright."
Zespri chairman Peter McBride said Mr Pilkington was one of the most highly regarded company directors in New Zealand.
"He has made an outstanding contribution to Zespri and to the kiwifruit industry. This includes not only his role in chairing the board innovation subcommittee but also his contribution to the Kiwifruit Industry Strategy Project. We thank David and wish him well for the future."