Synlait’s Longest-Serving Employee Joins Executive Team
Synlait's longest serving employee – a man who joined the Canterbury-based milk processor even before it began processing milk – is now its newest executive.
Foster has spent much of his working life with New Zealand agricultural businesses here and overseas. He was commercial manager with international shipping line Tasman Orient/Swire, before joining transport and logistics business NZL Group as chief executive and commercial manager in 2009.
Prior to this Foster spent 18 years with the New Zealand Dairy Board (and Fonterra) in various finance and management roles. This included positions at Canpac in New Zealand and the ingredients division in Europe, Australia, Japan and USA, before returning to New Zealand in 2003 to set up the Fonterra customer service centre in Auckland.
Foster's appointment follows the planned retirement of John Roberts on March 30. He has been general manager supply chain, quality and environment since 2007.
During a distinguished 42-year career in the dairy industry, Roberts has spent 10 years in chief executive roles in several cooperative dairy companies. They include Westland Milk Products, and Alpine Dairy Products which merged to form South Island Dairy Cooperative. Roberts was general manager at Bonlac Foods, Melbourne, and spent several years as a consultant, including time with Fonterra Brands in Auckland.
Commenting on Fosters' appointment, Penno says "We are pleased to have Matthew succeed John. He's had a career in dairy with international experience and a strong track record in supply chain and logistics.
"I also want to acknowledge John's contribution to Synlait Milk since its inception in 2008, and to the New Zealand dairy industry," Penno says. "John has made a huge impact throughout his career, none more so than with us. I owe John a great deal of gratitude for his professionalism, dedication and experience in the way he has helped develop Synlait Milk into the global business it is today."
