About the role
We are seeking an Independent Director to join the governance team of RDF1 Limited, the subsidiary to an Ahuwhenua Trust managing a progressive 550 peak-milk dairy cow farming operation.
To be successful in this role, you will have extensive, proven experience leading and operating a commercial dairy farming business, including significant experience in a System 4/5 farming environment.
This is an opportunity to contribute strategic insight and independent thinking to a farming business with a clear ambition: to become an award-winning dairy farm recognised for excellence in productivity, sustainability, innovation, profitability and stewardship.
The Rangihamama Dairy Farm unit, based in Kaikohe, is committed to creating enduring value for current and future generations. We are looking for a commercially minded leader who can help guide the farm through changing economic conditions, challenge conventional thinking, and identify opportunities that improve performance, efficiency and long-term profitability.
About the Role
As an Independent Director, you will provide strategic advice and independent governance oversight to support the Trust’s long-term success. You will work alongside the Board of Trustees, farm management and external advisory partners, AgFirst to:
- Provide strategic advice on managing farm profitability through changing economic conditions, milk prices and input costs.
- Bring fresh thinking and innovation that enhances productivity and operational efficiency.
- Challenge and support management to continually improve business performance.
- Identify opportunities to adopt modern farming practices, technology and systems that strengthen long-term competitiveness.
- Contribute to the development and execution of the Trust’s strategic direction.
- Support governance that balances commercial success with responsible stewardship of the land for future generations.
Remuneration
This is a remunerated governance role.
About You
You will bring:
- Extensive, proven experience successfully leading and operating a commercial dairy farming business.
- A strong track record of delivering commercial performance and managing profitability through changing economic cycles.
- An excellent understanding of modern dairy farming systems, technology and industry best practice.
- The ability to analyse financial performance and provide strategic advice that improves returns while managing risk.
- Strong leadership, sound judgement and the confidence to constructively challenge while working collaboratively.
- Previous governance or board experience is desirable but not essential.
If you have the experience, commercial insight and passion to help shape the future of a progressive farming business, we invite you to apply for this unique governance opportunity.
Knowledge or experience of beef farming operations would be an advantage as the Trust grows and expands into adjacent sectors.
An understanding of Te Ao Māori and an appreciation of the principles of kaitiakitanga would be valued, recognising the Trust’s commitment to caring for its whenua and creating lasting benefits for future generations.
If you have the experience, strategic perspective and passion to help shape the future of a progressive farming business, we welcome your application.
To Apply
Please submit your governance CV and cover letter to outline your skills and experience by email to belinda@aevica.co.nz
Applications for this role close Sunday, 20th September at 5pm.
Other details:
Term: No set duration
Time Commitment: Initially monthly meetings for up to six months, moving to quarterly