Job Details

Category: Board Member
Location: Nationwide

Farmlands

Farmlands Board Observer

Develop your governance capability in the rural sector by attending all Farmlands Board meetings for a year

• Gain hands-on experience in rural governance

• Open to Farmlands’ shareholders

• Travel, meal and vehicle expenses provided

Mō te whai waahi | About the opportunity
Play a part in the future of rural governance.

As part of our commitment to building governance capability across the rural sector,
the Farmlands Board offers a Board Observer Programme - a unique, hands-on
opportunity to learn directly from an experienced Board.

Successfully operated for the past seven years, the programme is similar in style to
the NZ Institute of Directors’ “Future Director” programme and is designed to help
build the next generation of rural governance capability.

There are two Board Observer opportunities available, commencing November 2026
through to August 2028, and August 2028 through to November 2029.

These programmes, typically around 18 months, provide exposure to real Board
activity, including attendance at all Board meetings and selected sub-committee
meetings. You’ll come prepared, contribute to discussions, and experience
governance at first hand - much like a Director - while building your understanding of
the responsibilities and expectations that come with the role.

While the Observer does not hold voting rights or Director obligations, you will gain
meaningful insight into how governance decisions are made and the impact they
have across Farmlands.

This is an unpaid development opportunity. However, Farmlands will:

• Provide access to Board materials to support your participation
• Cover reasonable travel and associated expenses
• Support you with a structured induction and ongoing mentoring

Appointment to the programme is competitive and designed to support and grow
future governance capability within the rural sector.

Mōhou ake | About you

You’re a Farmlands shareholder with a genuine interest in governance and the future
of the rural sector. You’re curious, commercially aware, and keen to broaden your
perspective and capability.

You will bring:

• A strong connection to, and understanding of, the rural sector
• Sound judgement and the confidence to contribute thoughtfully
• A commitment to learning and preparing for Board discussions

Previous governance or leadership experience is advantageous but not essential -
we welcome those who are ready to grow into future governance roles.

Mō matou | About us
Farmlands Te Whenua Tāroa is New Zealand’s largest farming co-operative,
supporting farmers and growers across the country. Guided by our values Be You,
Minds Open, See It Through we focus on helping our shareholders succeed and
strengthening connections to the land.

With over 1,200 team members across 80+ locations, our business spans retail, feed
production, e-commerce, and energy. We’re proud to be Kiwi-owned and committed
to developing capability for the future - including the next generation of rural
governance leaders.

Te Tono | How to apply
Apply on our official careers page with your CV and cover letter outlining your
interest.

Please include your Farmlands shareholder number and confirm your availability to
attend scheduled meeting dates as appended (noting that occasionally the Board is
required to change a date).

Please also indicate which Board Observer intake you are applying for:
1. November 2026 – August 2028
2. August 2028 – November 2029

Applications open: 2 June 2026
Applications close: 28 June 2026 at midnight
Shortlisted candidates invited for interview: July 2026
Decisions made: August 2026

Farmlands’ Board Meetings

2026

• 24 and 25 November
• 10 December (online)

2027

• 23 and 24 February
• 23 and 24 March
• 25 and 26 May
• 29 and 30 June
• 24 and 25 August
• 14 and 15 September
• 23 and 24 November
• 9 December

2028-2029 – expected to be similar to 2027

Date Posted: 2026-06-03