Tim Mackle will leave his role as DairyNZ chief executive in June. Photo: Supplied
DairyNZ's chief executive of has announced his resignation after 15 years in the job.
Tim Mackle, who was involved in the levy body's formation back in 2007/08, said he felt extremely privileged to have had the opportunity to lead and help develop DairyNZ's solutions and services on behalf of its farmer members.
Not announcing his next move, Mackle said he would stay on as chief executive until the end of June to give DairyNZ's board time to recruit a successor.
"I am proud to have had the opportunity to lead DairyNZ over this period, the dynamism and constant challenge and change in our sector has made it an exciting and purposeful role."
He said a highlight of his time in the role was the progress farmers have made around sustainability practices.
"Particularly over the last 10-15 years. There's always going to be a need to keep doing better on farms, but it's important we do acknowledge the progress made by our farmers and sector as a whole.
"I am deeply passionate about farming, it's in my blood, it always will be. I am lucky to have been able to work for farmers. Last but not least, my family deserve a special mention, and I owe a great deal to them in supporting me."
DairyNZ chairman Jim van der Poel acknowledged Mackle and his huge contribution to DairyNZ and its farmers.
"We're fortunate to have had Tim at DairyNZ through many challenging periods.
"Tim has played a key role in developing the research and development programme and the development of our science-based policy and advocacy function.
"Tim has always been a strong, passionate chief executive and he's built a strong people culture at DairyNZ, with a highly engaged, capable and purpose-driven team. That puts us at DairyNZ in a great position to continue to deliver more for farmers and New Zealand."
The board will begin the process of recruiting a new chief executive shortly, van der Poel said.
