New Zealand
April 4, 2023
Plant & Food Research - Rangahau Ahumāra Kai today announced that Mark Piper has been appointed as CEO from 1 May 2023. Mark takes over from David Hughes who has been CEO since 2018 and announced his retirement in late 2022.
Mark is an experienced senior leader with 30 years’ global experience in the food and primary sectors. He is passionate about leading and developing teams, building a strong positive culture, and bringing out the best in the people he works with. He has a strong track record of delivering financial results and operational impact.
Board Chair of Plant & Food Research, Nicola Shadbolt, said the Board was thrilled to make the appointment from a field of high calibre applicants for the role.
“The Board has taken great care over this vital appointment. We are thrilled with the calibre of people who came forward wanting to be part of our organisation. This is testimony to the work being done by our people and the reputation of Plant & Food Research for high quality, impactful science,” she said.
“Mark’s passion for science is clear and he takes great energy from its potential to create a more positive and sustainable future. I know that Mark will lead Plant & Food Research with innovation, integrity, and impact,” she added.
Mark joins Plant & Food Research from Fonterra Cooperative Group, where he spent the last five years as Director Research & Development, Category Marketing & Strategy, leading a team of around 400 staff. During his 30 years with Fonterra, Mark held roles based in New Zealand and internationally. This included three years in Japan in a technical role focused on growth and customer engagement, and five years in the US where he was the Regional Director for Fonterra Americas, based in Chicago.
Mark lives in Te Papaioea Palmerston North with his wife Angela and most of their six children. He has a strong connection to the Manawatū and will be formally based at Plant & Food Research’s Te Papaioea Palmerston North site.
Mark is looking forward to joining the Plant & Food Research team on 1 May. David Hughes will work alongside Mark in an advisory capacity during May, with a particular focus on supporting Mark to make strong connections with Plant & Food Research’s key external partners, customers and stakeholders.
Nicola Shadbolt acknowledged the significant contribution made by David Hughes during his time at Plant & Food Research, building the platform that Mark can now use to take the business to the next level.
“The Board offers its sincerest thanks to David for his commitment and huge contribution to Plant & Food Research,” she said.
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