Mr Dewdney joins PGW from his previous position as Chief Executive Officer of Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC), one of the world's largest and most successful integrated dairy herd and farm improvement companies. LIC is a dairy farmer-owned co-operative with investment shares listed on the New Zealand stock exchange. LIC's 2012 revenues were $177 million; the company employs 680 staff and has over 11,000 farmer shareholders. Upon assuming the leadership role at LIC in 2006, LIC implemented a new strategic plan that focused the co-operative on innovation from investment in research and technology to providing integrated solutions for customers in New Zealand and internationally. Over the past seven years under Mr Dewdney's leadership, LIC has successfully launched a number of new technologies that have enhanced the businesses of their farmer customers.
PGW Chairman, Sir John Anderson stated "Mark brings impressive qualifications for leading an agricultural business such as PGW and we are pleased to have him join the company". In addition to his record of success at LIC, he has spent years in leadership positions in New Zealand and Asia at global dairy giant Fonterra Group. His experience is hands-on as well, through his ownership of dairy farms in both New Zealand and Australia.
Over a month ago it was announced that Wayne McNee would take on the leadership role at LIC. Wayne McNee previous role was Director-General of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). His move from a government role into the private sector did raise of few eyebrows at the time of the announcement.
LIC chairman Murray King said the board was excited to appoint McNee to the co-operative’s top position.
“Wayne McNee has a comprehensive knowledge of agriculture, his passion and expertise evident in the leadership he has displayed as CEO of the Ministry of Fisheries and the integration of that with Ministry of Forestry and Agriculture into the Ministry for Primary Industries.
“This appointment is a huge accolade to the role LIC plays within the New Zealand agricultural sector and the economy generally. Wayne is moving from the ministry to what’s often called the engine room of the dairy industry.”
Related stories: Dewdney to leave LIC, McNee appointed LIC chief executive
