New Zealand’s meat processing and exporting sector has launched a campaign to help address the industry’s chronic shortage of employees.
The Meat your career website will highlight the wide range of opportunities available in the sector and shift the historic perceptions of what working in the industry is like.
The website includes videos featuring people working in the industry talking about their roles, a description of the types of positions available and guidance on remuneration.
There will also be a social media campaign.
“The industry is about 2,000 workers short and this results in reduced production and robs New Zealand of important export revenue,” Meat Industry Association chief executive Sirma Karapeeva, says.
“This campaign is focused on letting Kiwis know our innovative and progressive sector is at the cutting-edge of food manufacturing. Our people are world leaders in producing and exporting quality and nutritious food to more than 100 markets across the globe. We offer a range of exciting roles, competitive salaries, strong career pathways and an incredibly diverse workforce.”
There are roles in the industry for those without any formal qualifications or experience as well as for those who have completed training or tertiary and post-graduate study, Karapeeva says.
“We have graduates working in many areas of the industry including sales and marketing, international trade, communications, IT, new product development and food science. There are strong career paths to enable graduates to progress from entry level to more senior and management roles.
“There are also many opportunities in processing for people of different ages, stages of life and levels of experience – from school leavers to those looking for a career change or a return to the workplace.
“Coming in at entry level, you will not require any formal qualifications as plenty of training will be provided, leading to formal NZQA qualifications. There is also the potential to progress to leadership/supervisory roles as well as apprenticeships.
“Meat processing workers do a variety of tasks and are relatively well paid. An experienced lead hand can earn a salary comparable to a primary school teacher or registered nurse.”
The sector invests heavily in training and upskilling, Karapeeva says.
The website can be reached at: www.meatyourcareer.co.nz
