Oceania Dairy head recognised by Institute of Directors
Oceania Dairy General Manager Logan Hanifin is the South Canterbury recipient of the Institute of Directors Canterbury Branch First Steps in Governance Award.
In his current role, Logan manages the $400 million business directly, reporting to the Inner Mongolia-based owners, Yili. He manages a team of more than 400 employees and contractors, and his responsibilities include people, safety, finance, production, sales and marketing.
The First Steps in Governance Award provides opportunities for young professionals to gain governance experience in the not-for-profit sector. Benefits include a one-year governance internship with Venture Timaru, a year’s complimentary membership of the IoD, free attendance at all Canterbury branch members’ events, mentoring from an experienced director, and cash support towards an IoD director development course.
Judging panel chair Tony Howey says Logan was a standout candidate:
“He showed keen interest in governance and was focussed on playing his part with Venture Timaru in terms of supporting the economic development of the region. Logan is a senior leader in his company and is ready to take the next step in his learning journey to develop as an effective governor.”
Logan joined Oceania Dairy in 2016 as Maintenance and Services Manager after a successful secondment with the dairy company. He rose through the rank, being named Operations Manager in 2019 and General Manager in 2020.
He has a track record of outstanding career success. While training as an electrical apprentice, he was named the Etco (Electrical Training Company) apprentice of the year in 2010, going on to place third in the World Skills competition in Taiwan, and then earning a medallion of Excellence in Leipzig Germany, placing him in the top 5 per cent of apprentices globally.
By the age of 24 he was managing a team of 35 in his role as Maintenance and Services Manager at Oceania Dairy.
“This was extremely valuable learning for me in my journey as a leader, and was pivotal in creating the business acumen I have today,” says Logan. “Over the years I have continued to refine my ability to tailor my leadership and communication style to promote a positive site culture and positive leadership that supports all staff and customers to feel included and valued.”
He says in the long term he would like to use the knowledge and skills he has acquired in management and manufacturing to join boards to support other South Canterbury organisations.
“The idea that I can use my experience and passion to support other organisations to thrive is the main driver for me in becoming a director.”
Logan was born in South Canterbury and grew up in Temuka. He has been involved with Temuka Rugby Club all his life and remains a passionate club member and fund-raiser.
“Most importantly for me, this award will further embed me into our community, to meet key connections and to be able to contribute to our area’s development. I’m extremely passionate about the strengths of our region and the opportunities it brings.”
ENDS
For more information contact:
Mark Russell
Communications Manager
Ph: 027 297 0178
mark.russell@iod.org.nz