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FEDERATED FARMERS is paying tribute to Fonterra chairman Henry van der Heyden, who will step down next year.
Feds dairy chairman Willy Leferink says the Waikato farmer, a founding Fonterra director, has been instrumental in creating a forward thinking and world-beating company.
"The simple fact is that Sir Henry has moulded New Zealand's largest company that remains cooperatively Kiwi owned. He is not only a great farmer; he is one of New Zealand's most accomplished business brains.
"Sir Henry's easy going and accessible nature is matched with a genuine love of dairy farming and a passion for Fonterra. We couldn't ask much more of Sir Henry and we hope his contribution to dairy will continue.
"I know Federated Farmers would like to discuss 'what next' with him."
Van der Heyden announced at Fonterra's annual meeting in Whangarei this week that he will step down at the 2012 annual meeting. A succession plan is underway.
Leferink says not many New Zealanders understand just how big a job van der Heyden has done.
"It's not just a business story, but an environmental one. It was under Sir Henry's tenure that the Clean Streams Accord was launched. That has gone on to become an outstanding success."
Leferink also acknowledged the election of Fonterra's first Maori director. Taranaki Regional Council chairman David MacLeod replaces Greg Gent, who has retired.
"Taranaki's David MacLeod is a young and gifted dairy farmer who will bring his skills and knowledge to the board table."
Leferink also welcomed the appointment of Ralph Norris as a Fonterra director.
"He brings tremendous international business skills to Fonterra, being New Zealand's most international company."
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