Shanks, who took up her new role this month, was previously an extension manager for Beef + Lamb NZ and worked closely with the RST Waikato branch.
Shanks says she's looking forward to getting around the country and meeting those involved in the regional trusts to gain an understanding of the valuable work they do - not only during times of crisis, but in building resilience for the future.
"In my previous role I was lucky enough to see the work Rural Support Trust does on the ground, and the outstanding resource they provide to rural communities.
"Rural life, both farming and growing, will always have its challenges, and our goal is to walk alongside rural people during those tough times and help them come out of it stronger.
"I'm looking forward to supporting the Trust's work so our rural people, who play such a big role in the livelihood of New Zealand, feel empowered and appreciated for the work they do."
The Rural Support Trust is a collective of 14 regional trusts that offer a free, confidential service to rural farming communities to help during times of crisis. It is also known for its commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the rural community, and in 2022 partnered with TV presenter Matt Chisholm to start a conversation about rural mental health through their 'Time Out Tour' national roadshow.
National chair Neil Bateup says the Trust is pleased to welcome Shanks into the role.
"We're very excited to have Maria join us. Alongside her previous rural industry experience it was clear to us that she is passionate about helping rural communities and encouraging those important conversations around mental health and resilience.
"The past few years has seen unprecedented demand for the help and support the Trust provides, from the recent flooding in the North and droughts in the South, Covid and mycoplasma bovis, they've all taken a huge toll. As a national organisation we are very aware of the pressures farmers and growers are facing right now and will continue to face in the future."
Bateup says as general manager, Shanks will focus on strategy and leadership at a national level, and maintaining the Trust's crucial relationships with key funders, sponsors, and stakeholders.
"By having centralised oversight of our national priorities, it will free up capacity on the ground and allow the regional trusts to identify opportunities to further support rural people where it's needed and ensure no one is left behind."
