Governance Change At Alliance Group
Alliance Group, New Zealand’s only 100 per cent farmer-owned red meat co-operative, has today announced a new chair for the company.
The Alliance Group board has unanimously voted to appoint current director Mark Wynne to be the co-operative’s new chair, replacing Murray Taggart.
“Murray Taggart has been clear this term is to be his last as a director,” says Mark Wynne.
“The board wishes to thank Murray for his long service to the co-operative and the significant contribution he has made to ensuring that Alliance remains a strong farmer-owned co-operative. We wish him well for the future.
“Like all meat exporters, Alliance continues to face significant volatility as a result of geo-political tensions, inflationary pressures, high levels of inventory across all proteins in various markets, particularly lower-cost Australian sheepmeat, and weakening global markets.
“The Board remains committed to the co-operative’s long-term strategy, and in particular, the changes made across the business in response to the tough trading environment. These changes have highlighted significant opportunities for improvement.
“The global markets continue to be challenging, however, the new season has started on a much more positive note. But there is more work to do.”
Mark Wynne will assume the chair role on 12 April 2024. Mr Taggart has had a long involvement in Alliance Group as a shareholder director and chairman. He has been Alliance’s chair for the last 10 years.
“It’s been no secret that this was going to be my last term as Alliance chair,” says Mr Taggart.
“The board has been working on a succession plan for a new chair and with new chief executive Willie Wiese in place, now is the appropriate time to pass the baton on.
“It’s been a privilege to lead New Zealand’s only 100 per cent farmer-owned red meat co-operative. There is a great team at Alliance, and despite the current challenges, the co-operative has a strong future
“The past year has been tough for farmers and the co-operative on the back of significant weakening of prices in our global markets and high costs behind the farm-gate. It’s now more important than ever that farmers back New Zealand’s only 100 per cent farmer-owned red meat co-operative.
“I am confident the co-operative’s resilience and its ability to adapt in the face of adversity will ensure it will thrive for another 75 years.”
Mark Wynne has extensive experience in agribusiness, including 20 years in the dairy industry. He stepped down as Chief Executive of Ballance Agri-Nutrients co-operative in September 2023.
Mark was previously President South Asia for Kimberly-Clark, growing the United States multinational’s market share with brands like Kleenex and Huggies. Mark is an experienced governor and has served on various boards during his management career and in recent years as a director.
For more information, please contact:
Sam Halstead
027 474 6065
sam@latitudesc.co.nz
