Panel Discussion
2
CPD
Join us to explore the future of NZ’s primary sector—key challenges, opportunities, and insights from industry leaders.
Join us for an engaging panel discussion exploring the evolving landscape of New Zealand’s primary industries.
As global and domestic pressures intensify, leaders in the sector must navigate a complex web of challenges—from climate change and tightening regulations to changes in international markets, workforce shifts and infrastructure demands.
Our panel of industry experts will unpack key issues affecting the sector, including:
Whether you're directly involved in agribusiness or support the sector more broadly, this event will provide valuable insights, practical takeaways, and the opportunity to connect with others shaping the future of primary industries.
Mike is a strategic leader and governance expert with extensive experience in employment, immigration, and industry advocacy. His leadership spans education, agricultural ventures, and national industry boards. Recognised with the Bledisloe Cup for Industry Leadership, Mike has made a significant contribution to the horticulture sector. He holds qualifications in law, political studies, dispute resolution, and climate change governance. After stepping back from full-time work, he’s focused on strengthening local organisations and ensuring communities have a voice in decisions that affect them. Mike brings a practical, forward-thinking approach to governance, with a track record of building participation and delivering results.
Cheyenne Wilson (Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Awa) is an experienced governance professional and the founder of Te Kaharangi Hono, a kaupapa Māori consultancy working across the food and fibre sector. She currently serves on the boards of Muka Tangata – People, Food and Fibre Workforce Development Council, Meet the Need, and the Food and Fibre Centre of Vocational Excellence.
With a background in hands-on farming, rural leadership and vocational education, Cheyenne brings a unique perspective that blends practical sector experience with strategic insight. Her work is grounded in manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and kaitiakitanga, and she is a strong advocate for cultural capability and future-focused governance that supports Māori and rural communities to thrive.
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Tim was appointed Chief Supply Chain Officer in June 2025. He was previously Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Global Quality after joining Zespri in October 2023.
Before joining Zespri, Tim was DairyNZ’s Chief Executive for more than 15 years, and prior to that he was Chief Executive of Dexcel Ltd.
Tim was previously general manager of Fonterra subsidiary, Anchor Ethanol. He also worked in strategy for the New Zealand Dairy Board before taking a corporate role at Fonterra supporting the CEO during its establishment. Early in his career he was a nutrition and milk characteristics scientist with NZ Dair Board subsidiary DRC.
He has a PhD in animal, food and nutritional sciences from Cornell University New York, and a Bachelor of Agriculture Science (Hons) from Lincoln University. Tim is excited to support New Zealand growers and farmers to take their premium food to the world.
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Fiona is an experienced independent director and senior executive with deep expertise across New Zealand’s primary industries. Her governance roles span food and fibre, regional development, and kaupapa Māori investment entities. She currently serves on the boards of Kiwifruit Vine Health, Maungaharuru-Tangitū Ltd, JerseyNZ, Stihl Shop, and the Home of Cycling Charitable Trust, and is a committee member for Te Nehenehenui Trust.
With over 17 years’ experience in agribusiness, risk, and regional economic development, Fiona has held senior leadership roles including General Manager of Risk at Fonterra and Chief Executive of Te Waka. Her governance style focuses on long-term value, strong risk management, and meaningful stakeholder engagement.
She is particularly passionate about intergenerational asset stewardship, innovation in the primary sector, and aligning commercial performance with climate resilience. Fiona holds an MBA from Victoria University of Wellington, an MSc from the University of Otago, and is a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors.
Should you have any dietary, mobility, cultural or other requirements, you can let us know on the registration form.
By registering for this event you are confirming that you agree to adhere to our event terms and conditions.
Regrettably, registration fees cannot be refunded when cancellations are received within two working days prior to any branch event. See our standard terms and conditions for more information.
Megan Beveridge
Waikato and Bay of Plenty Branch Manager
+64 21 358 772
megan.beveridge@iod.org.nz
The Bay of Plenty branch acknowledges the generous support of
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Members — $40.00
Non-members — $60.00
