Leadership

The Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award is designed to recognise leadership, contribution and future-focused thinking within the dairy sector, while also encouraging others to step forward and get involved.

In this episode, Anne Lee sits down with award recipient Jo Sheridan to unpack her experience as the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year, going through the Dairy Women’s Network process and what the recognition has meant both personally and professionally. The discussion sets the scene for why awards like this matter, how they can help bring clarity on your direction and why you don’t need to sit back and wait to be nominated. Self-nomination and backing yourself is a great way to open doors to new opportunities across the sector. Applications and nominations for 2026 close on February 28.

Peter McBride sees Fonterra’s proposed sale of its consumer business as a pivotal step in refocusing the co-operative’s strategy and strengthening long-term farmer returns.

In this episode, Anne Lee speaks with the Fonterra Chairman about the rationale behind the sale to Lactalis, what’s included in the deal, and how it aligns with the co-op’s vision to concentrate on ingredients and foodservice. He explains how the move will help sharpen Fonterra’s focus, unlock value for farmer shareholders, and position the business to compete more effectively in global markets.

Bruce Thorrold sees a wave of scientific opportunity on the horizon, with breakthroughs in methane reduction and genetic innovation set to reshape the future of New Zealand dairying.

In this episode, Anne Lee speaks with Dr Bruce Thorrold, DairyNZ’s former Chief Science Adviser, as he reflects on his career and his move into semi-retirement. Bruce shares insights from his recent presentation at the NZ Institute of Rural Professionals conference, describing a “wave of opportunity” ahead for New Zealand dairy through innovations such as methane vaccines, inhibitors, boluses and high-lipid ryegrass.

He highlights that for new technologies to succeed, they must not only work technically but also be underpinned by viable business models and gain acceptance from consumers.

Nearing the end of his time at Dairy NZ as chief executive, Tim Mackle discusses his leadership role - and the importance of purpose. By Claire Ashton.

You don’t have to be born a leader to be a good one – the skills to manage a happy, effective team can be learned.