Venerdi announces a change in leadership
Auckland bread making company Venerdi has announced a change in leadership, with current CEO Tim Grainger moving into a new Business Development role at the company he co-founded in 2002.
The new role will allow Tim to focus on Plant and Machinery improvements, Product developments, and Market development.
Tim’s successor is current Venerdi Head of People and Culture, Kerry Elliot. Kerry has worked at Venerdi since 2016 and has been instrumental in developing the strong values-based organisational culture, which Tim says underpins the performance of the company today.
Kerry takes over as Venerdi CEO effective immediately.
Reckitt Benckiser announce new Marketing Director
Reckitt Benckiser (RB) has announced Saurabh Jain as their new Marketing Director for Australia and New Zealand, as the company look to sustainability initiatives.
Saurabh will oversee RB’s ANZ consumer hygiene portfolio, which includes brands Pine O Cleen, , Harpic, Easy-Off Bam, Mortein, Finish, Vanish, and Air Wick. He joins from the company’s global disinfection portfolio and has also previously held roles at ITC Limited and Amazon.
Saurabh, who has already commenced the role and is based in India until travel restrictions are lifted, replaces Arnaud Sudre, who has moved into the company’s global business.
NZBC appoints Public Affairs General Manager
The New Zealand Beverage Council is delighted to announce the appointment of Emily Fuller as its new General Manager of Public Affairs.
The NZBC represents the non-alcoholic beverage industry in New Zealand including manufacturers, brand owners and suppliers. Emily will start in her new role on 13 July.
Rockburn appoints new GM
Rockburn Wines Ltd. has confirmed the appointment of Tim Severne as General Manager.
Severne has significant sales and marketing management experience working with leading New Zealand companies such as Glengarry Wines, Hancocks Wine, Spirit and Beer Merchants and Marisco Vineyards. He most recently held the position of Global Sales Manager at the Antipodes Water Company, New Zealand’s leading premium bottled water. Antipodes Water is sold in over 15 countries and enjoyed in many of the world’s greatest restaurants and hotels.
Severne commented that he was “proud to be leading a talented team at one of the great Central Otago wine companies. Seeing Rockburn Wines poured alongside great cuisine and sold in premium retailers around the world will be a focus.”
Competenz Chairman retires
Competenz Trust Board long-serving Chairman Mike Simm announced his retirement from the role at its recent Annual General Meeting.
Competenz CEO Fiona Kingsford said Mike’s contribution over the last eight years has been invaluable for the Industry Training Organisation (ITO). “Mike’s passion for youth development, vocational education and our industries has led Competenz to become a highly respected and trusted advisor with our industries and Government.
“On a personal note, I have truly valued Mike’s support and mentorship over the past four years and will miss his wisdom and insight.”
George Adams will replace Mike as Board Chair. George joined the Competenz Board in April 2018. He has 30 years of experience leading companies in New Zealand, Africa and Europe, which has given him an in-depth appreciation of the benefits of industry training to learners, companies and the country. He is a strong advocate for the FMCG, forestry, and health and safety sectors.
