Horticulture NZ seeks aspiring grower leaders for associate director role

The associate director programme is designed to develop future leaders by providing hands-on experience in governance, strategy and leadership within the horticulture sector.

The successful applicant will spend 18 months as a non-voting member of the board, supported by mentoring from experienced directors and access to governance training.

HortNZ board chair Bernadine Guilleux said the position is an opportunity for someone with horticultural experience to grow their leadership capability and gain valuable insight into board-level decision-making.

"We're looking for someone actively involved in the horticulture sector, with a good understanding of the issues and opportunities facing growers. They should be a strategic thinker, keen to learn, and able to interpret financial, operational and technical information."

As the challenges and complexity facing the sector grow, Guilleux says building governance capability is critical to the sector's long-term success.

"We need more people with the skills and experience to lead effectively at a governance level - whether on boards, in industry groups or in their own businesses.

"This programme is one way HortNZ is helping to grow that capability."

The HortNZ board comprises nine directors - seven elected by growers and two independents - and meets six times a year in Wellington and across the country's main growing regions, with additional meetings held online.

While the role does not carry a vote, Guilleux says the board encourages full participation and values constructive input and insights from the associate director.

The term of appointment for the associate director runs from July 2025 to December 2026, offering time to settle in and contribute across a full annual cycle of board activity.

Applications close Friday, 16 May 2025. For more information and to apply, visit www.hortnz.co.nz.