The Chief Biosecurity Officer (CBO) supports MPI’s role to lead New Zealand's biosecurity system by leading system-wide strategy, assessing system performance and connecting participants across the system. The CBO provides an assurance, oversight, and review functions for the Deputy Director-General Biosecurity New Zealand and the Director-General, Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), to support the whole of the biosecurity system operating in an integrated and effective manner. The CBO and their office also work to strengthen the role and performance of Chief Technical Officers and deputies appointed under the Biosecurity Act, increase the impact of research commissioned by BNZ, and lead on recognition and protection of conservation values in BNZ (offshore, border, domestic), and strengthen the relationship with the Department of Conservation

Leadership across the post border (within New Zealand) biosecurity system including MAF's emergency response and pest management activities to reduce harm from new and established exotic organisms.