Marisa Bidois has announced she will step down from her post as CEO of the Restaurant Association later this month.
After 14 years delivering for New Zealand’s hospitality sector, Restaurant Association of New Zealand Chief Executive Marisa Bidois has announced a planned departure from her role at the end of February 2026.
Restaurant Association President Mike Egan said Marisa’s decision reflects a natural transition point following more than a decade of sustained leadership and advocacy for our industry.
“Marisa has been a tireless and highly respected advocate for hospitality and the people behind it,” Egan said.
“She has led the sector through some of its most challenging moments with integrity, clarity and an unwavering focus on people.”
“During her tenure, Marisa helped secure major policy outcomes, strengthened industry capability, and guided the sector through COVID-19, natural disasters, and ongoing workforce and regulatory challenges. Her leadership was instrumental in hospitality gaining dedicated Ministerial recognition and progressing long-needed regulatory reform.”
Bidois said she is extremely grateful for more than a decade of trust to support the industry through some of its toughest times and feels that the time is right for a new challenge.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved and am deeply indebted to our membership who make up the diverse and resilient hospitality industry in New Zealand. To our members: thank you all for the trust, courage, challenge and commitment to our industry - you are what makes this industry so special.”
The current General Manager of the Restaurant Association, Nicola Waldren, will be stepping up to lead the organisation. Waldren has been a part of the Association’s Senior Leadership team for 20 years and brings an unmatched level of continuity for both organisation and industry.
Waldren said Bidois’ leadership has been unparalleled and acknowledged her service.
“I am excited to continue to champion the voice of our members and our sector to enable a more sustainable and resilient future for the hospitality industry, especially as we approach the election season,” she said.
Egan added that the Association’s ongoing focus on internal capability and succession planning allows for a smooth transition and limited impact on members.
“We have a strong and experienced management team, a clear purpose and a critical role to play as the sector continues to navigate change.”
He said the Association remains firmly focused on advocating for hospitality businesses, building industry capability, and working constructively with government and partners to support the sector’s long-term sustainability.
Bidois’ final day will be on 27 February 2026.
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