Experienced business leader Garry Diack has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of leading New Zealand exporter and critical communications company Tait Communications.

Diack replaces former CEO Frank Owen, who stepped down in April 2014 while David Wade, Tait Communications acting CEO will remain with the company - Diack's appointment is effective immediately.

“Garry's appointment is exciting for us and a significant addition to Tait as we continue our tradition of innovating in the global market place," says Chairman of the Board, Peter van Rij.

“Garry will lead Tait Communications' shift to software solutions and support services as part of our global growth strategy.

“We're grateful for the energy and commitment of all our employees during our search for a new leader and would like to thank David Wade for his excellent leadership.

Diack brings strong leadership and a wealth of governance and management expertise to Tait Communications.

He has a 25 year career as an advisor in corporate performance improvement, governance and growth-related strategies in New Zealand and offshore.

“Tait is a business with such immense potential," Diack adds. "It is endowed with great people and its excellent track record of international performance has clearly secured its status as an iconic brand for Christchurch and New Zealand.

"I am privileged to have secured this position and very excited to have a leadership role in its ongoing success.

Diack has also served as a Trustee of the Contel Charitable Trust, one of the owners of Tait Communications, since 2007 - Diack's advisory roles have included News Limited (now News Corp Australia) and PMP Limited.

Diack was also involved in the merger activities, which led to the creation of Fonterra in 2001 and, as interim CEO, led State Owned Enterprise Solid Energy through a period of challenging market conditions last year.