Finance Minister Nicola Willis has appointed an agribusiness executive to join the Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee, the body responsible for managing inflation.
Hayley Gourley will begin her four-year term on October 1. She will participate in the committee’s upcoming Official Cash Rate (OCR) review scheduled for October 8.
Gourley takes over from Bob Buckle, whose term as an external committee member has ended.
Willis appointed her following a recommendation from the Reserve Bank board.
Between 2019 and 2023, Gourley served as the agri divisional manager for Skellerup Industries. Prior to that, she spent over 17 years at Rabobank, holding roles such as senior credit analyst in London, dairy research director, and New Zealand general manager.
She holds a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of London/Imperial College and participated in the Rabobank senior leadership programme at London Business School. She also earned a Bachelor of Applied Economics in Agricultural Economics from Massey University.
“Hayley Gourley brings extensive experience across corporate, rural, and financial services sectors to the role,” Willis said.
“Her roles at both board and executive level in leading agribusinesses provide her with a unique perspective that will enhance the committee’s discussions.”
Reserve Bank deputy chairman Rodger Finlay described Gourley as a “highly qualified candidate.”
The committee’s internal members, who are full-time employees of the Reserve Bank, include interim governor Christian Hawkesby, chief economist Paul Conway, and assistant governor Karen Silk.
Gourley will join Prasanna Gai and Carl Hansen as fellow external members.