Waikato-based executive Campbell Parker has been appointed chief executive of DairyNZ.
Parker brings a wealth of experience to the role and said he is excited to be stepping into DairyNZ at such a pivotal time for the dairy sector.
He replaces Dr Tim Mackle, who leaves at the end of June after 15 years in the role.
DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel welcomed the expertise Parker brings to the company, including extensive experience in the rural and corporate sectors.
Parker, who starts in October, has been chief executive of GEA Farm Technologies NZ since 2020.
“Recruiting a new chief executive who is passionate about dairy farming and its future has been hugely important to us – alongside leadership skills to continue DairyNZ’s positive direction, as an organisation here first and foremost to represent our dairy farmers,” Van der Poel said.
“Campbell brings significant leadership and sector experience that will be invaluable to both DairyNZ’s senior team and in supporting and representing our farmer levy payers, in a wide range of forums.
“Campbell is passionate about agriculture and, in particular, supporting New Zealand dairy to continue as a world-leading sector.”
With over 25 years’ experience in agriculture, Parker has held roles with PGG Wrightson, Bank of New Zealand and Ballance Agri-Nutrients. He holds a Bachelor of Agriculture majoring in Rural Valuation from Massey University and grew up on a sheep, beef and dairy grazing farm.
Parker said he is excited by the opportunity to contribute to dairy farming in a new and challenging role.
“I am genuinely humbled and excited to be joining DairyNZ as the next chief executive. I am passionate about the role the dairy sector plays in creating jobs, building communities, and contributing to the success of the New Zealand economy,” he said.
“It is important to build on the good work Tim and the team have done over the past decade, and to keep that moving – working collaboratively to ensure long-term sustainability and profitability of the sector.”
An acting chief executive, Peter Scott, will be in place until Parker joins DairyNZ in October.
