Rewarding farmers who embrace sustainability
Winners of DairyNZ’s Sustainability and Stewardship awards in the Ballance Farm Environment Awards have their eyes firmly fixed on progressing a positive future for New Zealand dairy.
Nominations for two farmer-elected DairyNZ Board of Director positions and one Directors’ Remuneration Committee member position are open.
DairyNZ acting chief executive Peter Scott says farmer-elected directors play a crucial role on the DairyNZ board.
He says this includes providing perspectives and insights which shape board discussions and set the direction of DairyNZ and dairy farming in New Zealand.
“We are looking for forward-thinking dairy leaders to be a part of the sector and its leadership through the DairyNZ board,” says Scott. “They will bring unique sector and governance experience, strategic thinking and fresh ideas.”
Scott says farmers continue to face numerous challenges, “and both DairyNZ and the board are dedicated to engaging with farmers and delivering support through research, advocacy and on-farm tools”.
“DairyNZ’s board and staff are passionate and focused on progressing a positive future for dairy farmers, and we want people who share that passion and enthusiasm to apply.”
Ideal candidates will have a strong understanding of farm systems, research, policy, and advocacy. Good networks, strong business and finance skills, along with governance experience, are preferred.
DairyNZ’s board comprises five farmer-elected directors and three board-appointed directors.
Two farmer director positions are open for nominations, with Colin Glass and Jim van der Poel both stepping down by rotation.
In May, Glass, who is also chief executive of Dairy Holdings Ltd., confirmed he would not stand for re-election.
Nominations are also being taken this year for one farmer to join the DairyNZ Directors’ Remuneration Committee. Candidates must be nominated by two DairyNZ levy payers.
Candidate nominations for all three positions must be received by the Returning Officer by midday on Friday 25 August 2023.
If an election is confirmed, farmer voting will take place during September and October, with the successful candidates announced at DairyNZ’s annual general meeting on October 11 in Te Awamutu.
