Katie de Villiers, Head of Sales at One Harvest, has been appointed Chair of PMA Australia-New Zealand Limited (PMA A-NZ) replacing Michael Franks who has retired by rotation.
Katie has been an active member of PMA A-NZ since joining the produce industry 11 years ago. Katie is passionate about attracting and developing talent in our industry, and so in 2016 joined the PMA A-NZ Talent Taskforce, and set to work igniting the passions of future industry leaders. Katie has been widely recognised for her work mentoring students through the PMA A-NZ Career Pathways program, and her commitment to these students has kick started some great careers. In 2018, Katie joined the PMA A-NZ Board and has served as Vice Chair for 18 months.
Ms De Villiers said, “I’m looking forward to increasing my involvement with PMA A-NZ, and working with the Board and staff to ensure we continue to deliver value to members in this ever-changing environment. I would also like to acknowledge and thank Michael for the significant contribution he has made to PMA A-NZ during his time as Chair”.
Katie is an experienced produce industry professional who will bring her relationship management, commercial negotiation and business leadership skills to PMA-ANZ as the industry body continues to navigate the changing needs of its members.
Ben Hoodless, General Manager – ANZ Vegetable Seeds Bayer Crop Science has been instated as Vice Chair of the Board.
“A critical component of the PMA ethos is volunteerism, a character that Katie has demonstrated repeatedly throughout her involvement with the association. I welcome Katies appointment as Board Chair, and appointment of Ben as Vice Chair. The contribution of our volunteer leaders is a critical component of progressing the association’s vision to bring together the global produce and floral community to grow a healthier world,” says Darren Keating, CEO.
For more information:
PMA A-NZ Office
Email: info@pma-anz.com
www.pma.com/Global-PMA/ANZ/