BRANZ’s executive leadership team leads the organisation to deliver evidence, tools and services the building sector can trust. It sets strategic direction and works collaboratively to improve affordability, quality, resilience and sustainability across New Zealand’s buildings.
Claire Falck
Chief Executive Officer
Claire leads BRANZ’s focus on delivering practical research, testing, assurance and expert advice to support more affordable, resilient, sustainable and higher‑quality buildings for New Zealanders. Claire brings extensive experience in system design and transformation across the public and private sectors.
Dr Chris Litten
Chief Operating Officer
Chris has a passion for turning building research, testing and assurance into real-world impact. With international leadership expertise across the science system, he plays a key role in shaping BRANZ as a collaborative leader in New Zealand’s building sector and in global building research.
Dr Mark Jones
Acting GM Research
Mark provides strategic leadership across BRANZ’s research. With more than 20 years at BRANZ, he brings deep expertise in building performance, materials and durability and a strong focus on research impact for the sector.
Dr Jill Vintiner
Director, Research Investment
Jill leads BRANZ’s research investment portfolio and stewardship of the Building Research Levy. She brings senior leadership experience from across New Zealand’s science system and a strong focus on delivering research that supports industry and national priorities.
Peter Searle
Chief Financial Officer
Peter leads BRANZ’s corporate services, including finance, IT and business operations. He plays a key role in strengthening organisational systems, governance and financial sustainability.
Rhys Hurd
General Manager, Communications and Engagement
Rhys leads communications, engagement and channels at BRANZ. With more than 20 years’ experience in public sector and corporate communications, he focuses on building trust, strengthening relationships and helping the sector better understand and use BRANZ’s work.
Janet Geritzlehner
General Manager, People and Capability
Janet leads people and culture at BRANZ, with a strong background in human resources and organisational development. Since joining BRANZ in 2015, she has focused on building capability, leadership and a positive workplace culture.
Karla Falloon
Director, Office of the Chief Executive
Karla leads the Office of the Chief Executive and supports BRANZ’s strategic direction. She brings deep experience from New Zealand’s science and innovation system, including international science partnerships and public sector advisory roles.