Feds sets up new rural leadership and development initiative

As part of a strategic review, and following the Federated Farmers’ National Board meeting last week, the Federation will go to market for a new role. The position, General Manager Leadership and Development will progress a new leadership and development initiative currently dubbed “Feds Uni”.

Federated Farmers CEO, Conor English said today:

“This is an important and significant initiative. Agriculture is the backbone of the New Zealand economy. If we are to make sure that New Zealand and our rural communities realise their potential it is critical we continue to develop and grow our rural leadership and human capital capability.

“Rural people are resourceful, intelligent and resilient. Federated Farmers sees it has an important role to pull together the strands of a medium-term leadership strategy and framework to grow and develop this fantastic resource and to build on existing initiatives.

“Currently we have some excellent programmes such as the Kellogg and Nuffield scholarships. In addition the Federation also runs a number of leadership and other courses, as well as offering scholarships and awards. There are also other organisations such as the Institute of Directors, ITO’s and the tertiary sector. Federated Farmers wants to build on these and other relationships and initiatives to provide more of a structured framework for rural people to grow their leadership and management skills.”

Mr English said the “Feds Uni” initiative would not just focus on technical farming skills but on building leadership and human capital. It is part of a strategy which will see Federated Farmers review all conferences, awards, scholarships and other current leadership initiatives.

“We believe there is a real thirst and need for this leadership initiative, so we are taking action.

Federation President, Don Nicolson said:

“Agriculture is about people as well as farms. Federated Farmers has and will continue to focus on the business of farming, being a strong advocate and voice for rural communities. However, this important initiative will add and build on that effort. It will help build capability for future generations.”

The new role will be advertised shortly.