Associations Forum has announced the appointment of Joanna Matthew is its new chief executive officer, replacing outgoing chief executive, John Peacock.

Peacock said the Board of Associations Forum was pleased to appoint Matthew after an extensive search.

“Joanna is a highly competent and capable professional who has success in policy, operations, membership, professional services and leadership roles in associations. She has a strong passion for the association sector and the personal warmth to continue the success and reputation of Associations Forum,” Peacock said.

Matthew was previously at Save The Children Wellington and South Pacific, Surf Lifesaving NZ, Library and Information Association of New Zealand Aotearoa and Financial Advice Association of Australia. She has a BA Psychology from Middlebury College in Vermont, USA and an Executive MBA with Distinction from Massey University, NZ.

She will officially join Associations Forum on 7 August for an interim transition period, before fully commencing as chief executive officer on 6 October.

“It is an honour to be appointed to lead Associations Forum into its third decade,” Matthew said.

“Since founding Associations Forum in 2004, John Peacock has developed it into a prestigious and highly respected network of industry, professional, and special cause bodies. I look forward to building on his achievements and continuing to deliver high quality services to our 500 member bodies plus many valued stakeholders.”