Search for CEO starts

Board chair Michelle Wilson said applications have opened with a number of people already registering their interest.

"The CEO is the face of the Dairy Women's Network and will represent the organisation and members at the highest level as the network is increasingly invited to contribute to discussions regarding the future direction of the dairy industry."

She says strategic business and financial acumen, an understanding of adult learning, a focus on achieving results and the ability to build effective relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders are some of the more important attributes the successful applicant will need to possess.

"The CEO will have a strong people focus and an affinity for women in the business of dairying. An innate understanding of the New Zealand agricultural industry will be a distinct advantage."

The role, which Wilson has temporarily filled for the past five months, is based in the network's Hamilton office where most of its six full and part-time staff members are also situated.

With charitable trust status, the network receives project funding from DairyNZ, and has a stable of influential agribusiness and industry sponsors.

Wilson says the network has experienced rapid growth since its inception in 1998, firmly establishing itself as an innovative and influential national organisation.

"We lead some significant industry projects, including developing Project Pathfinder, the first leadership programme for women working in the dairying industry – and we are looking for someone who has the credibility, reputation, experience and drive to continue moving the Dairy Women's Network forward."

Sheffield has been appointed to manage the recruitment campaign which closes on September 29.

More information and the position description can be found on the Dairy Women's Network and Sheffield websites. For those interested in applying, official applications can made through the Seek advertisement or Sheffield website - www.sheffield.co.nz.