Al Morrison was appointed as Chief Executive and Director General of the Department of Conservation on 13 November 2006. He was previously the Department of Conservation’s General Manager, Strategy and Policy, a position he held since 2005.

Al joined the Department of Conservation in 2002 as General Manager, External Relations. In this role he was responsible for Treaty Settlement negotiations, land purchase and protection, international affairs and strategic issues.

Prior to joining the department he had a long career in journalism, in reporting, commentary and several management roles. From 1997 to 2002 Al was Political Editor, Radio New Zealand and managed press gallery staff.

Al joined the Board of Trustees in 2006.