We're excited to welcome four kiwifruit industry leaders into this year's Zespri Governance Development Programme, each bringing strong industry experience, leadership and a commitment to the future of our sector.
Mark Thompson — Managing Director, Martray Limited & MEAD Consultants Ltd
A Katikati kiwifruit grower whose family has been in the industry since 1980, Mark manages a multi-property Gold and Green operation while also running a technology advisory firm. He represents Katikati growers on NZKGI and sits on the EastPack Entity Trust Forum.
Paul Gardiner — Chief Financial Officer & Director, Whitehall Group
Paul leads finance, treasury and capital allocation across a diversified agribusiness group, and brings governance experience as a director and trustee across several organisations. He's represented NZKGI growers in the Waikato and served on Zespri's OMC Committee since 2019.
Scott Barr-Smith — Chief Executive Officer, Ngāi Tukairangi Trust
Scott heads a leading Māori-owned horticultural and investment organisation, overseeing a diverse portfolio across kiwifruit, apples, citrus and property. A CPA with a background at KPMG and ANZ, he's driven by building governance capability and creating opportunities for Māori economic growth.
Shayne Joyce — Orchard Manager, Trinity Lands Ltd
With more than 30 years in commercial fruit production and more than 20 years in kiwifruit, Shayne currently chairs Mount Growers Ltd and has held board roles across sport and education. He's completed the IoD Governance Essentials course and brings deep on-orchard experience to the programme.
The Zespri Governance Development Programme is designed to build leadership capability and strengthen governance expertise, with a primary industries and kiwifruit-specific focus. You can learn more about the programme here.
Congratulations to all four participants - we look forward to supporting them on their governance journey over the year ahead..
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