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.
Tim joined Zespri in September 2021 as Global Head of Strategy and was appointed Executive Officer Strategy in April 2022. He is passionate about shaping organisations for long-term success and has over 25 years’ experience in M&A, IPOs, corporate finance, and strategic consulting across the UK and New Zealand. He has worked in investment banking and Big 4 firms, and held directorships in New Zealand, the UK, US, and China.
Before joining Zespri, Tim spent eight years in the international fresh produce industry with T&G Global, including six years leading strategy and transformational projects, including sustainability initiatives. In 2020, he led the acquisition and integration of T&G’s NZ business and Freshmax NZ, becoming CFO of the newly formed T&G Fresh.
Tim holds a Bachelor of Management Science (Marketing) from Manchester University and a Master’s in Management Information Systems from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business.
CMInstD
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
