She succeeds Tim Ritchie, who is retiring after 12 years in the role.
Before joining the association in 2015 Karapeeva held a variety of trade, policy and regulatory roles at the Ministries for Primary Industries, of Business, Innovation, and Employment and Economic Development.
She said the red meat sector is operating in an increasingly complex environment and faces a number of challenges domestically and internationally.
“I am looking forward to supporting the sector to capture opportunities and position the industry as an innovative and progressive producer and exporter of safe, high-quality food.
“Meat processing is the country’s largest manufacturing industry and makes a significant contribution to New Zealand.”
Chairman John Loughlin said Karapeeva has built up important relationships across government and the industry, which will be vital as the organisation works with others to advance the interests of the red meat sector and NZ’s wider primary sector.
“Sirma has a strong understanding of the red meat sector’s priorities and challenges, practical experience and understanding of the international trade environment, negotiations and agreements and expertise in policy development.”
Karapeeva begins the new role in April.
