Diack will join Ravensdown from his position as chief executive and executive director of Tait Communications on July 19.
He has over 30 years’ experience of improving corporate performance, effective governance and driving growth.
Ravensdown chair John Henderson says Diack’s experience across many industries, his rural connections and his grounded yet innovative approach made him a compelling proposition for the board.
“The board is excited that its search for someone that offers strategic continuity and deliberate evolution has been successful,” Henderson said.
“There’s no doubt that our purpose of enabling smarter farming for a better New Zealand has never been more important and Garry is passionate about that direction.”
Christchurch-based Diack is looking forward to helping take Ravensdown forward in a changing landscape.
“Large parts of my career have been devoted to helping harness the power of NZ agriculture to punch above its weight in domestic and international markets,” Diack said.
“I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity of advising the likes of CRT, Silver Fern Farms and the predecessors to Fonterra. Through these experiences and a directorship of the Ashburton Trading Society, I have witnessed Ravensdown forge true value-based relationships with its farmers and I am privileged to be given the opportunity to play my part in the challenges of tomorrow’s farming.”
Henderson noted Greg Campbell’s eight years of service to Ravensdown, its staff and farmer members.
“Greg has been an exceptional and accessible champion of farmers, the work of Ravensdown and its staff, for which we thank him. Under his leadership, Ravensdown has returned to profitability and increased the level of service to our farmer-shareholders. Our very best wishes go with him,” Henderson said.
“The business is finishing its financial year strongly with firm demand for our farm environmental planning services and solid orders for nutrients before winter. I’d like to thank all the Ravensdown team for focusing on their shareholders’ needs through a crucial autumn.”
