Organic Aotearoa NZ executive director, Ken Shirley has resigned from his position with OANZ to take up a new role as CEO of the Researched Medicines Industry Association.

Mr Shirley, who begins his new job in early September advised his resignation "with some regret" and said it had been a privilege and a joy to be closely involved with the establishment of OANZ during the past 16 months.

"There is a wonderful opportunity for the New Zealand organic sector led by OANZ to realize the goals set by the visionaries who developed the OANZ concept. The attainment of these goals will largely depend upon the sustained commitment of the member organisations."

He said he had enjoyed the journey so far and would watch further progress with a keen interest.