Zellera Holden has been appointed general manager of the farmer charity Meat the Need.
Holden will take over from co-founder Wayne Langford, who announced his resignation in July and stepped down this month.
Langford will continue as a board member.
Meat the Need chair Julia Jones said Holden’s appointment as its first full-time general manager represents a significant move forward for the charity.
“Zellara’s wealth of knowledge and skills are well aligned with Meat the Need and our vision for the future of the charity within the food and fibre sector. She has worked for Dairy Women’s Network for over 12 years and more recently, GAVINS Limited,” she said.
“She brings strong financial acumen, years of developing strong lasting relationships in our sector, and a deep understanding of how to support and empower volunteers. We are pleased to announce her appointment and know that she will be a great fit with the wider team and stakeholders.”
Holden said she is honoured and excited to take on the role.
She sees it as an opportunity to reconnect with key stakeholders and most importantly, play a part in giving back to the community and people in need across the country.
“When I saw the opportunity come up, I wanted to be part of this amazing charity that’s doing great things for our communities. Meat the Need’s vision that ‘no one should go hungry or unnourished’ in New Zealand really spoke to me,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to working with the team and, together, supporting the charity to move into a new phase.”
As part of her role, Holden hopes to raise greater awareness of food insecurities in the country.
“There is an opportunity for the New Zealand public to fully understand the extensive needs for many families across the country. We want to ensure that all New Zealanders have access to locally sourced, high-quality and nutritious protein to secure a prosperous future for generations to come.”
Meat the Need helps feed New Zealanders in need by providing the means for farmers to donate livestock and milk through its processors, which is then given to over 110 food banks across the country.
