Three new directors include Christian Parsons, Kenny MacLeod and Matthew Atley
The International Fresh Produce Association Australia–New Zealand (IFPA A-NZ) has welcomed three senior industry leaders to its board of directors following member elections announced at the association’s annual general meeting.
The appointments further strengthen the organisation’s leadership across the fresh produce and floral supply chain, bringing together expertise spanning retail, production, technology, category management and international market development.
The newly elected directors are Christian Parsons, chief operating officer of Costa Group, Kenneth (Kenny) MacLeod, business category manager for veg, salad and value-add of Coles Group and Matthew Atley, head of fruit and veg and bakery buying teams of Aldi stores.
IFPA A-NZ chair Dean Gall said the appointments reflected the increasing importance of collaborative leadership as the industry navigated an increasingly complex and globally connected operating environment.
“Robust governance and diverse industry representation are critical as we navigate evolving challenges and opportunities across supply chains, labour, sustainability, technology and consumer demand,” Gall said.
“We are fortunate to have directors who bring deep operational knowledge, strategic capability and solid industry relationships from across the fresh produce and floral ecosystem.
“As our industry becomes increasingly globally connected, it is important our board reflects both local knowledge and an international lens across retail, supply chains, consumer trends and market dynamics.”
“These appointments further bolster IFPA A-NZ’s ability to support members, advocate for industry priorities and continue positioning Australia and New Zealand as global leaders in fresh produce.”
IFPA A-NZ managing director Belinda Wilson said the organisation’s continued growth was underpinned by member engagement and aligned industry leadership.
“We are bringing the industry together — connecting members across the supply chain locally, while also creating meaningful global opportunities through IFPA’s international network,” Wilson said.
“Our board remains focused on strengthening the operating environment for members while continuing to champion fresh produce as essential to health, wellbeing, sustainability and economic prosperity.”
The association also acknowledged the contribution of outgoing directors Richard Byllaardt and Catherine Velisha, who have completed their respective terms on the board.
