IRL Chief Executive awarded Thomson Medal

Shaun Coffey received the medal for his inspirational leadership in the management of science and his outstanding contribution to the development and application of science and technology to wealth generation in New Zealand and Australia. He also received $15,000.

An agricultural scientist by training, Shaun Coffey has played a major role in leading research and development enterprises on both sides of the Tasman – he was Foundation Chief of CSIRO Livestock Industries in Australia for six years before joining IRL in 2006. In both roles, Mr Coffey gained a reputation as a natural and inspirational leader and an astute and successful manager.

Since becoming CEO of IRL, he has focused on financial stability, reversing 20 months of negative growth, boosting IRL’s share of competitive research contracts, retiring debt and initiating cost reductions.

Mr Coffey has also championed world-leading research projects, enhanced customer relations and brought a sharper commercialisation focus. In addition, he is a regular contributor to international science through journal publication, attending and speaking at conferences, and as a media commentator.

Mr Coffey has been presented with a number of honours and awards but says receiving the Thomson Medal is a very special recognition.

• For more information, view Shaun Coffey's citation on the RSNZ website.