Former Beef+Lamb NZ CEO appointed head of Foundation for Arable Research
Former chief executive of Beef+Lamb New Zealand Scott Champion will head the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) from July.
Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) chief executive Dr Alison Stewart is stepping down in June this year after seven years in the role.
Announcing her resignation, Stewart says she has thoroughly enjoyed her time at FAR and will be sad to say goodbye to a sector that has impressed her immensely with its diversity, sustainability and resilience.
"Having led FAR through the implementation of several major initiatives, including signing up to the GIA for Biosecurity Readiness and Response, introducing the new knowledge exchange platform 'Growers Leading Change' and establishing Cultivate Ventures, an industry led investment fund, it is now time to move on."
Stewart says she plans to continue working in a science advisory and board director capacity and is looking forward to sharing her knowledge and experience of the New Zealand science and agricultural sectors with up and coming leaders.
FAR board chair Steven Bierema thanked Stewart for the "great contribution" she has made to FAR and the wider arable industry.
"In a changing world, Alison has been a driving force, encouraging the arable industry to adapt and to adopt changes using science-based solutions.
"With great passion, Alison has worked with her team to make FAR the go-to organisation for arable research and information and a workplace where the whole team feels at home.
"She has worked hard to develop strong communication pathways with both government agencies and industry partners. She always sought a collaborative solution, but wouldn't shy away from standing up for our industry when required.
"Personally, I feel privileged to have worked with Alison; as a fellow northern European, I appreciated her direct approach."
The board will begin the recruitment process shortly.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
New Zealand must continue to educate Chinese consumers about the unique qualities of its red meat products and how they differ from competitors, says Silver Fern Farms chief executive Dan Boulton.
There are opportunities outside the farmgate for young farmers to further develop their skills, says 2025 Primary Industries Emerging Leader Award winner Bridie Virbickas.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…