Dave Chambers

Dave Chambers will serve as an independent director on T&G Fresh's board

T&G Global has announced a new board structure for its New Zealand domestic business, T&G Fresh.

The board will be chaired by T&G Global chief executive Gareth Edgecombe. T&G Global chief financial officer, Bastian Von Streit, and T&G Global director innovation and technical, Peter Landon-Lane, will serve as directors, while Dave Chambers, former managing director of Progressive Enterprises (New Zealand), has been appointed as an independent director.

Edgecombe said the board brings together a wide range of experience in retail, operations, production and finance, which will enable T&G Fresh – launched in May 2020 following T&G Global’s acquisition of Freshmax New Zealand – to take the next step in transforming the fresh produce sector.

“We see the importance of having the right governance structure in place to enable Andrew Keaney, T&G Fresh managing director, and his T&G Fresh leadership team, to drive the business forward, focussing on being the produce partner of choice for growers and customers,” Edgecombe explained.

“A key focus for Andrew and his team will be to extend its vertically integrated growing operations, investment in new categories and building leading brands supported with the best genetics.

“We’ll also see the team drive the digital transformation of the markets business to create more value for grower and retail customers through data driven insights, and better utilization of technology to remove cost from the supply chain.”

Edgecombe was pleased to welcome Chambers to the newly formed board, with his wealth of experience set to be an asset to the Auckland-headquartered company.

“With more than 30 years’ experience at Progressive Enterprises New Zealand, with the last six as managing director, Dave is a highly experienced business leader, with a proven track record in transforming businesses and overseeing significant capital, technology and digital investment. This experience will be an asset for our board.”

Chambers said he is excited to be joining the inaugural T&G Fresh board, as the group continues its integration of the Freshmax New Zealand business and adapts to the changing needs of New Zealanders.

“For our growers and our customers, T&G has an excellent, dedicated team focussed on serving their needs and I’m delighted to be able to be part of the new future for T&G Fresh,” Chambers explained.