After more than four years in the position, Zespri chairman John Loughlin has announced he will be standing down from the role and as director in early 2013.

John Loughlin

Loughlin first joined the New Zealand kiwifruit marketer's board as an independent director in 2002, and was elected chairman in August 2008.

"When I was re-elected in 2010, I signalled then that my intention was for this to be my last term serving on the Zespri Board," he said in a release.

"In line with this intention, I have announced my decision to stand down from the Board to growers, shareholders and other industry stakeholders."

He said the board would now search for an independent director with the necessary commercial and financial skills and experience.

The company release said the new director would be announced when Loughlin steps down, with confirmation sought at the 2013 annual general meeting.

For Loughlin, serving the Zespri board for 11 years has been a "privilege".

"This industry is one built on a pioneering spirit, camaraderie and a relentless desire to keep innovating and keep improving," he said.

"While the industry is currently under significant pressure from Psa, I have no doubt that it will overcome this challenge – as it has challenges in the past – and will continue to be a New Zealand success story."

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