fbpx
Print this page
Friday, 27 November 2020 08:34

Co-op leaders recognised for long service

Written by  Sudesh Kissun
Pictured left to right: Professor Nicola Shadbolt (Massey University), Simon Manning (CEO, Wealthpoint), Brendon Quinn (Network Manager, EA Networks), John Monaghan (former Chairman, Fonterra) after the awards ceremony. Pictured left to right: Professor Nicola Shadbolt (Massey University), Simon Manning (CEO, Wealthpoint), Brendon Quinn (Network Manager, EA Networks), John Monaghan (former Chairman, Fonterra) after the awards ceremony.

Three agribusiness leaders, with over 70 years’ combined service to co-operatives, were recognised at last night’s Cooperative Business NZ awards.

Former Fonterra chairman John Monaghan, who stepped down from the co-op this month, academic Nicola Shadbolt, who served as a Fonterra director for nine years and Lachie Johnstone, who served as the inaugural chairman of Farmlands Co-operative, received awards.

Co-operative Business New Zealand chief executive Roz Henry says the Outstanding Co-operative Contribution Award recognises individuals who have contributed significantly to the success of the sector over the long-term.

 Johnstone was chairman of the North Island-based Farmlands Trading Society when it merged with the South Island-based CRT Co-operative in 2013.

Henry says Johnstone has been a champion for the co-operative model.

“He is someone who has upheld the co-operative principles and this was particularly evident during the formation of Farmlands, when he was truly focused on ensuring the new co-operative was based on the core values of the model and that the structure would provide a livelihood for members. “He has also been a key advocator in ensuring the development of governance skills and capability across the sector.”

Shadbolt, a Massey University, is a staunch advocate for the co-operative model.

Henry says she is a trailblazer who has worked incredibly hard to achieve long-term, sustainable change.

“For Cooperative Business New Zealand, she played a key role in enabling the first piece of research to be undertaken by Massey University to gain clarity around the value of the Co-operative Economy to New Zealand.

“This work was incredibly important to the sector and has been a cornerstone in enabling discussions with the Government and regulators.”

Monaghan was nominated for the award by a group of Fonterra shareholders without his knowledge.

“John is to be admired for his determination and commitment to lead Fonterra through a significant period of transition,” says Henry.

“It was a hefty responsibility and seeing the co-operative return to a position of profitability is a fantastic way to complete his tenure.”

More like this

Fonterra appoints new CFO

Fonterra has appointed a new chief financial officer, seven months after its last CFO’s shock resignation.

Featured

Women 'dominate vet profession'

Females are dominating the veterinary profession worldwide and many farmers are welcoming this change in the composition of the profession, says Britain's Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Professor Christine Middlemiss.

High level of herbicide resistance

A five-year randomised survey of herbicide resistance on New Zealand arable farms has found widespread high levels of resistance - with 71% of farms affected in the worst-hit region - South Canterbury.

Editorial: Farm salaries get a boost

OPINION: The recent Federated Farmers / Rabobank 2024 Farming Salaries Report revealed strong growth in farm salaries over the past two years.

Fonterra appoints new CFO

Fonterra has appointed a new chief financial officer, seven months after its last CFO’s shock resignation.

National

Rural GP's inspiring legacy

The legacy of Dr Peter Snow continues to inspire as the recipients of the 2023 and 2024 Peter Snow Memorial…

Off the radar

A year on and the problems created by Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle has largely dropped off the radar of media…

Machinery & Products

GPS in control

In a move that will make harvesting operations easier, particularly in odd-shaped paddocks, Kuhn has announced that GPS section control…