After an extensive recruitment process, The Aotearoa Circle Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Alec Tang as the organisation's next Chief Executive, effective 28 September2026.
Circle co-Chair James Palmer says: “The Board was hugely encouraged by the calibre and depthof interest in this role, and we’re delighted that Alec will lead The Circle into its next chapter anddecade. Alec is deeply committed to The Circle’s kaupapa and vision as demonstrated throughhis experience working at the intersection of nature and our economy in both the public andprivate sectors. That experience includes leading workstreams with The Circle through his current role as Partner and Climate, Sustainability and ESG Lead at KPMG.”
Commenting on his appointment, Alec Tang says he feels honoured to picking up the baton from Vicki and is looking forward to continuing to work collaboratively with Circle Partners, Guardians, Rangatahi Advisory Panel and team to collectively address the significant risks facing our economy as the degradation of nature continues but also the significant opportunitiesinvestment, adaptation and action offer Aotearoa New Zealand.
“It is such an incredible privilege to be charged with continuing the amazingly impactful mahi of The Aotearoa Circle,” Alec shares. “Now, more than ever, we understand how Aotearoa New Zealand’s economic resilience and competitive advantage is dependent on healthy, flourishing natural systems, and how important it is for groups like The Circle to convene, catalyse and compel progress towards a more sustainable, less extractive relationship with nature. I’m really excited for what lies ahead, and whilst there are clear challenges for us to navigate together, the prospect and opportunity of a more nature positive economy is quite the motivating force.”
Alec succeeds founding Chief Executive Vicki Watson who will step down 30 September after seven years leading The Circle from its inception to become New Zealand's only public-private partnership known for its work in enabling the restoration and protection of the country's natural capital for enduring prosperity.
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