New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) Chief Executive Lynda Coppersmith will step down from her role following the FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final in July, marking the end of a remarkable period of development for the organisation.
Board Chair Chloe Jones says that during her six-year tenure, Coppersmith led the successful implementation of a new digital platform for club management, expanded its sponsorship base despite challenging market conditions, and achieved record-breaking participation in competitions.
Pictured: Chief Executive of NZ Young Farmers, Lynda Coppersmith
“Under Lynda's leadership, we are developing a sustainable operating model, have increased our volunteer base, and expanded our sponsor family, effectively supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders," says Jones.
"Lynda's ability to navigate challenges while maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, sponsors, and members has strengthened NZYF’s foundation, ensuring its financial sustainability and connection to the food and fibres sector."
Lynda Coppersmith says she’s incredibly proud of what the small ten-person team at NZYF has achieved despite all the challenges thrown their way.
“The last six years have been full-on and forced us to think on our feet. COVID-19 saw us quickly pivot to make our competitions online, while changes to government funding have meant we’ve had to work a lot smarter,” says Coppersmith.
“I'm particularly proud of how our FMG Young Farmer of the Year contest has evolved. Not only is the competition growing in size each year, but it’s growing in diversity. In 2023 we had our first female overall winner, and this year, for the first time, every one of our regional finals has at least one female contestant. Overall, women make up 25% of this year’s finalists."
“I’m passionate about the potential of our agricultural sector and it’s been heartening to see the growth of our two junior competitions, AgriKidsNZ and the FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year. The huge demand for these events speaks volumes about the bright future of agriculture in New Zealand."
Coppersmith, who will be staying on as chief executive until the Grand Final in July, says she feels it’s time for someone else to take over the reins.
“While I’ve had an amazing six years, I feel it’s time for a fresh set of eyes and new challenges. I’ve done my best to leave the organisation better than I found it, and I am sure my successor will do the same.”
Chloe Jones says the NZYF Board will begin the process of recruiting for the next chief executive later in February.
“While keeping the organisation's purpose and vision front and centre, we're after someone who can build on the solid foundations Lynda has put in place. The right person will be a strategic thinker, great at building relationships, and genuinely passionate about the future of New Zealand’s agricultural sector,” says Jones.
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