Zespri has taken a whole-of-life view for finding quality people for industry leadership, one that extends back to schoolchildren’s first encounter with the premium fruit.
Michael Fox, Zespri’s head of global Pacific affairs, said the marketer’s leadership development plan stems from its broader strategic plan, which has community development as one of its six pillars.
“So the focus of the community strategy has happy, healthy communities in a sustainable environment, leading to a more skilled industry,” Fox said.
The holistic approach kicks off in primary schools with Zespri’s “Young and Healthy” programme aiming to instil healthy living habits in Kiwi kids. This includes encouraging them to eat more fruit and vegetables, drink more water, lower screen time and halve their junk-food intake.
With one eye on capturing young future leaders for the industry and to help engage with young people, the marketer provides horticultural scholarships open to anyone who has completed at least one year of tertiary study and aspires to a career in the horticultural sector, particularly kiwifruit.
Up to $10,000 over two years is provided towards tuition fees for university students studying a wide range of topics and who may be interested in a career in the sector.
“Through NZ Kiwifruit Growers and a BoP fruit growers programme we also work to identify young leaders in the industry in an across-the-board approach, people who may not only be good growers, but have skills like public speaking and leadership talent.”
Ultimately, those wanting to progress to directorship or leadership roles in the organisation or other industry bodies can also consider Zespri’s governance development programme.
“This is the major marquee programme with a complete immersion into the industry, including a domestic governance tour of New Zealand companies, including Silver Fern Farms, talking to experienced directors like Rob Hewett who freely give up their time.”
Best practice, governance and fiduciary duties are all covered.
“This runs for a year, and it is not viewed as just a Zespri board opportunity, it is about gaining the ability to engage and lead across the industry, and can include a wide range of people from growers, investors and professionals.”
The programme has been running since 2015 and notable alumni in high-level positions include current NZKGI and Apata chair Mark Mayston. NZKGI board member Tammy Hill is included in this year’s cohort of young leaders completing the course.