Associate Director Appointment
Leading food and solutions co-operative Alliance Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Ross Bowmar as the 2022/23 Associate Director.
Raised in Southland where his parents still farm, Ross and his young family now own and operate Redcliffs Station, a high country sheep and beef station in the Rakaia Gorge in Canterbury. Running close to 8,500 stock units, Ross is balancing economic growth with environmental and social enhancement.
Ross brings a wealth of international experience and knowledge to the role, having completed a Masters in Agricultural Economics at Michigan State University in the United States before spending 10 years with one of the world’s largest agricultural processing companies, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM).
Ross gained experience in direct management of sales, import and export logistics, processing, staff, risk management and profit and loss ownership in various roles across the US and Australia. He then returned home to New Zealand, starting the business here and building it to over $100 million turnover and 1,000 customers (mostly farmers) within five years.
“I returned home to raise my young family and play a lead role in the future of agribusiness in New Zealand. I am excited about this opportunity and look forward to contributing my knowledge in a meaningful way, while also learning from some of the best and most experienced directors in the rural sector.”
Ross is actively involved in the rural community and was recently appointed Chair of the Meat & Wool section of Federated Farmers Mid Canterbury, among several other roles.
“Alliance Group is committed to supporting the future growth of the rural sector, and we need to create the next generation of leaders in order to do so,” said Murray Taggart, chairman of Alliance Group.
“Ross attended the Know Your Co-operative conference earlier this year and impressed us then, and subsequently, with his global experience, his desire to learn and develop, and the leadership role he plays in his community.
“His diverse capabilities including understanding farming systems, farm operating environments and global trade movements, will certainly add a lot of value to board conversations.”
The Alliance Board was once again delighted with the calibre and number of shareholders that put themselves for an Associate Director role, he said.
Mr Bowmar replaces inaugural Associate Director Victoria Trayner, who finishes her 12-month appointment next month.
“The role offers unparallel insight into one of New Zealand most unique businesses,” says Ms Trayner.
“The mentoring programme within the position enriched my knowledge, fostered insight to decision making, and expanded personal growth opportunities to learn. I have loved my time on the board and have enthusiasm and passion to be a part of the future of Alliance.”
Ross will join the Board for 12 months from August 2022.
