Former NZ Super investment head lands chief executive role

The former head of investments at the Guardians of New Zealand Super Fund - who left in November 2025 after a 14-year stint - has secured the top job at a national organisation.

After almost a year since his departure from NZ Super, Hishaam Mirza is joining the New Zealand Stock Exchange (NZX) as chief executive, effective September 14.

Mirza will replace Graham Law, who was acting in the role since Mark Peterson stepped down as chief executive earlier this year.

Mirza brings 25 years' experience in investments, corporate development and governance, including NZ Super, Lazard & Co, BP and IBM across London, Melbourne and Auckland.

He is currently a member of Datacom Group's audit, risk and remuneration board sub-committees and chairs the board of Parnell District School in Auckland.

Announcing the appointment, NZX chair John McMahon noted Mirza was a "stand out" candidate following an extensive global search.

"Hishaam is a proven strategic leader and recently finished a 14-year tenure at NZ Super, culminating in heading direct investments and managing a team of high-performing investment professionals," McMahon said.

"The board is delighted with Hishaam's appointment, and we look forward to working with him in delivering NZX's growth strategy to elevate the performance of NZX and New Zealand's capital markets.

"The board sincerely thanks Graham for his steady hand in leading the business since the beginning of May."

Mirza said he is looking forward to leading the bourse for further growth.

"NZX is a highly trusted and well-run market at the heart of New Zealand's economy. The opportunity now is to build greater scale, liquidity and global relevance," Mirza said.

"As chief executive, I'm looking forward to ensuring the exchange - and the smart and NZX wealth technologies businesses - remain strong partners for businesses, investors and government; helping New Zealand businesses grow, innovate and compete internationally, while supporting more New Zealanders to build long-term wealth."