Comvita Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Comvita has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, marketing, and deputy chief executive oversight.

Driven by a commitment to guardianship, Comvita focuses on the long-term development of Manuka and Bee products, leveraging scientific expertise and a dedication to planetary protection.

Leadership Roles at Comvita

  • Chief Executive Officer - Karl Gradon
  • Group Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Andrew Chen
  • Chief Operating Officer - Ben Duncan
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Andrea Wilkins
  • Karl Gradon - Chief Executive Officer

    Karl Gradon, the Chief Executive Officer at Comvita, directs the company's overall strategy and global operations. Gradon oversees the execution of Comvita's mission to be the global leader in the Manuka honey category, ensuring alignment with the company's founding principles and future growth objectives. This leadership role involves driving innovation in product development and market expansion, particularly within the premium Manuka honey sector. Gradon's strategic vision guides the company's commitment to scientific research and the sustainable development of bee products. By focusing on long-term value creation, Karl Gradon ensures Comvita maintains its pioneering status and market leadership, while also championing initiatives like the sponsorship of the NZ pavilion at the World Expo, emphasizing Kaitiakitanga and planetary guardianship. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to fostering strong stakeholder relationships and navigating the complexities of the global food manufacturing industry.

    Andrew Chen - Group Deputy Chief Executive Officer

    Andrew Chen, the Group Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Comvita, supports the Chief Executive Officer in steering the company's strategic direction and operational execution. Chen's responsibilities encompass a broad range of critical functions, ensuring the seamless integration of various business units and supporting the company's global market leadership in the Manuka honey category. This role involves close collaboration with other senior leaders to drive efficiency and growth across all facets of the business. Andrew Chen plays a vital part in overseeing key strategic initiatives, including the long-term development of Manuka and bee products, underpinned by Comvita's scientific know-how. The Group Deputy Chief Executive Officer's focus extends to enhancing Comvita's market presence and ensuring operational excellence, particularly in relation to the company's commitment to Kaitiakitanga and sustainable practices. Chen's leadership contributes significantly to maintaining Comvita's competitive edge and financial health within the global food manufacturing sector.

    Ben Duncan - Chief Operating Officer

    Ben Duncan, the Chief Operating Officer at Comvita, oversees the company's global operational efficiency and supply chain management. Duncan directs the day-to-day execution of Comvita's business processes, ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality Manuka honey and bee products to markets worldwide. This critical role involves optimizing production, logistics, and quality control systems to support Comvita's position as the pioneer and global market leader. Ben Duncan's responsibilities extend to implementing operational strategies that align with the company's commitment to scientific know-how and the long-term development of its product lines. The Chief Operating Officer plays a key part in upholding Comvita's dedication to Kaitiakitanga, ensuring sustainable practices are integrated throughout the operational framework. By driving operational excellence, Duncan ensures Comvita maintains its competitive advantage and meets the growing global demand for its premium offerings.

    Andrea Wilkins - Chief Marketing Officer

    Andrea Wilkins, the Chief Marketing Officer at Comvita, architects the global brand strategy and market positioning for the Manuka honey category. Wilkins directs all marketing initiatives, ensuring Comvita's commitment to scientific know-how and the long-term development of its premium bee products resonates with consumers worldwide. This leadership position involves overseeing brand storytelling, digital marketing, and consumer engagement strategies that highlight Comvita's unique value proposition. Andrea Wilkins is instrumental in translating the company's dedication to Kaitiakitanga and planetary guardianship into compelling marketing campaigns that reinforce Comvita's market leadership. The Chief Marketing Officer's purview includes driving market penetration in key international regions and fostering strong brand loyalty. By championing innovative marketing approaches, Wilkins ensures Comvita's narrative of quality, sustainability, and scientific backing remains at the forefront of the global food manufacturing landscape.
    Andrea Wilkins

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Comvita Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Comvita?
    Comvita is led by Karl Gradon (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Andrew Chen (Group Deputy Chief Executive Officer) and Ben Duncan (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Comvita’s executive team?
    The executive team of Comvita includes leaders such as Karl Gradon (Chief Executive Officer), Andrew Chen (Group Deputy Chief Executive Officer), Ben Duncan (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Comvita have?
    Comvita has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Comvita’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Comvita includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Group Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer.