Chief Farm Solutions & Engagement Officer
- Provide visionary leadership and direction to a high-performing team.
- Shape and deliver strategic farm solutions, engagement, and communications for DairyNZ’s farmers and partners.
- Strengthen relationships and influence change through expertise, innovation, and collaborative partnerships.
About DairyNZ
DairyNZ is progressing a positive future for New Zealand dairy farming – Te whanake anamata angitu mo nga pamu kau o Aotearoa. They are passionate, knowledgeable, and innovative in their thought leadership, motivated by their vision and a desire to see communities benefit from a thriving dairy sector.With a keen eye on the changing dynamics of society, lifestyle, and demand, they strive to stay ahead of the curve, creating a positive future for generations to come. At DairyNZ, you’ll be part of a purpose-driven organisation, working alongside talented professionals who care deeply about the future of dairy farming in New Zealand.
About the Role
To amplify impact and leadership, we are seeking a Chief Farm Solutions & Engagement Officer – a dynamic executive who will shape and champion DairyNZ’s farm solutions, farmer engagement, and thought leadership nationwide and on international stages.
Reporting to the CEO, you will:
- Lead and inspire a high-performing team, building capability through a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and creativity.
- Develop and implement strategies that bring DairyNZ’s vision to life and drive change through innovative solutions and impactful engagement.
- Oversee multiple teams, including:
- Solutions & Development – delivering dairy farm systems expertise and tailored solutions.
- Regional Teams & Extension Delivery – engaging directly with farmers and partners.
- Farmer Communications & Marketing – ensuring impactful communication and brand consistency.
- Corporate Communications & Media – managing media relationships and strategic messaging.
- Dairy Training Limited – supporting capability development across the sector.
- Foster and maintain high-value relationships, acting as a primary point of contact for key stakeholders and representing DairyNZ where it matters most.
- Champion cross-functional collaboration, evaluating delivery and making improvements to connect, align, and inspire.
- Be a trusted advisor to the leadership team, providing strategic counsel and amplifying key campaigns, initiatives, and stakeholder events.
About You
We’re looking for an experienced and future-focused leader who understands the power of expertise, engagement, and innovation to drive meaningful change.
You will bring:
- Proven executive leadership experience, ideally within the agricultural or primary sector.
- A strong track record in strategic programme delivery, stakeholder engagement, and change leadership.
- Commercial acumen and experience managing significant budgets.
- Exceptional relationship and influencing skills, with networks across the sector.
- Digital fluency and the ability to leverage new platforms and insights for maximum impact.
- A collaborative approach and commitment to continuous learning.
- A passion for creating impact in agricultural, business, and community outcomes.
Why DairyNZ?
You will be part of a passionate and supportive team where your expertise will directly contribute to better futures for farmers and communities across New Zealand. DairyNZ offers a flexible, values-led work environment where innovation, learning, and people come first.
Benefits- Flexible and hybrid working.
- Employee-centric staff wellbeing programme.
- Professional development available for all employees.
- Culture capability (Maori) personal development.
- EAP services.
- Whanau-first philosophy including access to discretionary leave for life’s “curve balls”
Ready to make a difference? Apply now!
For further information or a confidential conversation, contact Senga Allen on 0272104212.