What Would Synlait Be Worth to Fonterra or a2 Milk?
Speculation of a possible joint move by Fonterra and a2 Milk to buy Synlait raises a much bigger strategic question, says agribusiness expert Dr Nic Lees.
West says he is resigning for personal reasons.
"I am proud of what the university has achieved under my leadership. It has been a fabulous three years and Lincoln is on track to become one of the world's truly great land-based universities", he says.
"However my commitment of time, energy and focus has been so great that it is now appropriate that I refocus on my family that live in the Waikato and on my very elderly parents that live in England.
"I want to wish the university every future success. It is a fabulous place to study and I'd encourage any young New Zealanders interested in careers in the country's most important industry to enrol there."
The university's Chancellor, Tom Lambie, acknowledged West's significant contribution.
"In the past three years under Dr West the University has focused on its land-based specialisation through qualification reforms, revitalisation of capability, in-principle investment of $100m by Government in Lincoln, and growth in student enrolments", says Lambie.
"The university wishes West well in his ongoing career in global agri-business."
