Meat Industry Association CEO Sirma Karapeeva to Step Down

Sirma Karapeeva has resigned as chief executive of the Meat Industry Association of New Zealand (MIA), the organization announced Friday. Karapeeva will depart on March 6, 2026, after seven years with the association, including four as CEO.

Nathan Guy, independent chairman of the MIA, acknowledged Karapeeva’s contributions, stating she had “led the organisation through times of industry challenges and growth.” He specifically cited her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and periods of “unprecedented growth in global returns” for the sector, according to a statement released by the MIA.

Karapeeva joined the MIA in 2015 as Trade and Economic Manager, transitioning from a career in the public sector. During her tenure as CEO, she navigated complex trade negotiations, including responses to American tariffs, China safeguard investigations, and free trade agreements with Europe and the United Kingdom, Guy noted.

The MIA chairman also highlighted Karapeeva’s success in fostering stronger relationships between the industry and the government. “During Sirma’s time as CEO, she provided an excellent link between government and industry, leading MIA to strengthen its wider industry partnerships,” Guy said. “This proved especially beneficial as we worked together to address industry challenges and take a more aligned approach across the sector.”

The association has initiated a recruitment process to find Karapeeva’s replacement. She will assist with the transition of her responsibilities before her departure next week, the MIA stated.