Job Details

Category: Board Member
Location: Wellington

New Zealand Meat Board

Board Observer | New Zealand Meat Board

The Role
The New Zealand Meat Board (NZMB) helps the red meat sector capture the best possible returns from sheep and beef exports to quota markets. A statutory body and an important part of New Zealand’s trade architecture, NZMB manages export quotas into the UK, US and Europe valued at approximately $2.6 billion, saving the sector $1 billion in tariffs.

NZMB also safeguards financial reserves for the benefit of livestock farmers and funds industry-good projects that deliver real value for farmers.

We are establishing a Board Observer position to provide a genuine, structured step into governance. This 18-month, non-voting role offers an emerging leader the opportunity to see how strategic decisions supporting this work are made and to build capability within a professional Board environment.

The Experience
This isn’t just a seat in the room; it’s a path to developing real-world governance depth. Over the next year, you will:

• Engage with Complexity: Move beyond the theory of governance and engage with the practicalities of finance, risk, and international trade oversight.
• Direct Mentorship: Work closely with an experienced NZMB Director to navigate the nuances of the boardroom.
• Contribute to the Sector: Participate in Board meetings and committees, helping to steward the interests of New Zealand’s red meat industry.
• Tailored Development: We’ll work with you to ensure the experience aligns with your specific professional goals and governance trajectory.

What you bring
We are looking for an emerging leader who offers a balance of professional skill and a genuine "feel" for the land and the industry.

• Character & Perspective: High integrity and the ability to bring an independent, thoughtful viewpoint to the table.
• Sector Connection: A pulse on the red meat industry
• Communication & Curiosity: The ability to articulate a point clearly, but more importantly, a real appetite to listen, learn, and contribute.

The Commitment

• Time: 1 day per month, with meetings primarily held in Wellington.
• The Investment: This is an unpaid development role; however, all travel and role-related expenses are fully covered and we will support you to achieve an approved development plan.

How to apply: Please click this link https://beeflambnz.bamboohr.com/careers/277

Note: In your cover letter please share your motivation for applying and your development goals.

Applications close: Sunday 29 November 2026.

Date Posted: 2026-11-11