The Nelson-based multinational commercial enterprise, Wakatū, has appointed its current General Counsel, Kerensa Johnston as its new chief executive.

“Caring for the whenua on which our assets depend, and nurturing the talents of our people have been, and will always be, critical to our success,” said Ms Johnston.

Wakatū was established in 1977 and today it owns and operates several subsidiary and associated companies, including Kono NZ LP, its export food and beverage arm and Whenua, which manages residential and commercial property development in the Nelson and Marlborough region.  

The role has been vacant since the last CEO, Keith Palmer retired in 2012.