So, what to do with this succession malarky?
OPINION: She's a bit damp on the East Coast. Hughie can't stop the rain, and the high temps in between weather events has got the flies on the front foot in the animal health stakes.
Cleland takes over the role this month from long-standing board member and interim chair Fenton Wilson.
Wilson steps down from the board after 10 years of service, which has seen him most recently hold the role of interim chair after the resignation of Dr Paul Reynolds last year.
OSPRI chief executive Sam McIvor says the organisation has been fortunate to have had the benefit of Mr Wilson’s knowledge and experience, while transitioning to a new board chair.
"I speak for all farmers and the funders of OSPRI when I say we owe a significant debt of gratitude to Fenton.
"He has made a substantial contribution to the development of the work of OSPRI for more than a decade.
"He’s been fiercely committed to the value of TB freedom for New Zealand and brought a unique knowledge set as a farmer but also as a regional council chair."
Cleland is a well-known figure in New Zealand’s primary sector, as he and his wife have farming and wine industry businesses. Amongst his governance experience, Cleland was a board member of FMG Insurance for 16 years and chair for six years.
"We’re really pleased to have someone with the industry knowledge and respect that Tony has, as our new chair," McIvor says.
"He brings grassroots farmer knowledge and significant governance experience, both critical for OSPRI’s success."
