Chief Farm Solutions

• 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 mō ngā pāmu 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 across local, national, and 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 (Māori) personal development.
• EAP services.
• Whānau-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

Position Description