Callaghan Innovation has announced the resignation of its Chief Executive, Stefan Korn.
Stefan has led the organisation since 2022, having previously served on the Board and as Chief Product Officer. His resignation comes at the end of a year that saw the announcement of changes within the Science, Innovation and Technology system, including the disestablishment of Callaghan Innovation.
Board Chair, Elena Trout, says Stefan brought huge start-up and innovation expertise to the role and has done an outstanding job leading the organisation through a challenging time.
“Stefan has brought calm and thoughtful leadership to the disestablishment process and will be missed.
“He’s overseen the shutdown of a range of products and services, as well as preparations for the transfer of many Callaghan Innovation functions to other parts of the reformed science, innovation and technology system.
“Stefan’s done the heavy lifting on disestablishment, and the Board thanks him for his hard work, professionalism and commitment.”
Due to disestablishment, Callaghan Innovation will not be recruiting for a new Chief Executive and has instead appointed its Chief Innovation Expertise Officer, Cliff Hastings, as acting CE.
“As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, Cliff has been involved in all the key decisions related to disestablishment. He is a respected leader within the organisation and will provide much-needed continuity.
“Leading an organisation such as Callaghan Innovation is no small task even before you add in the complexity of disestablishment. The Board is pleased Cliff has agreed to step up, and he has our full confidence and support,” Elena Trout says.
Stefan Korn will finish up at Callaghan Innovation in mid-January, with Cliff Hastings taking over as Chief Executive at the same time.
