The International Fresh Produce Association Australia and New Zealand (IFPA ANZ) is embarking on a search for a new managing director to take the association into an era of growth, following the resignation of Ben Hoodless.
Hoodless, an ardent advocate for the fresh produce and floral industries, has been in the role as managing director for almost two years and will continue with IFPA ANZ to transition the role to the new managing director.
IFPA ANZ chairman Richard Byllaardt said Hoodless had been a long-time supporter of the IFPA ANZ and is passionate about its ability to leverage its network and global reach to have a positive impact on the Australian and New Zealand fresh produce and floral sectors.
"Ben volunteered on the board for four years and was chair before assuming the role of managing director. During his tenure, IFPA ANZ has experienced significant growth including double-digit growth in attendance of the annual flagship event and Australasia's premier fresh produce trade show, Hort Connections, which it co-owns with AUSVEG," Byllaardt said.
"Beyond traditional offerings such as networking and food safety, IFPA ANZ has expanded its offerings in the areas of sustainability by bringing a global lens to this discussion through its global expertise and reach. Likewise, in talent, IFPA ANZ has responded to member needs such as the expansion of its 2025 program curriculum designed to upskill the industry. Our industry is facing many challenges, and IFPA and its global footprint are uniquely placed to support the ANZ members and the industry," said Byllaardt.
He said the new managing director would work closely with the board and IFPA global leadership team to deliver outcomes and drive advocacy efforts. As the leading industry body representing all of the supply chain in the fresh produce and floral sector, IFPA ANZ plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration, advocating for the industry's interests, promoting sustainable practices and connecting industry with its global partners.
The new managing director would have oversight of all strategic and operational activities for IFPA across ANZ, along with the formulation of the longer-term strategic plans under the guidance of the ANZ board and in partnership with the IFPA global network; take a leadership role in industry and advocate on behalf of the ANZ industry and its members' supporting growth and prosperity for all companies in the fresh and floral supply chain.
Ideally, the managing director would be based in Melbourne where the IFPA ANZ is headquartered. An autonomous role which reports to the chair and the international business manager, the managing director will lead the local ANZ team and partner with the IFPA global network to deliver for the ANZ industry and its members.
Hoodless said he remained committed to the IFPA ANZ and the industries it represented and was excited for the future of the association under a renewed leadership.
For more information:
Ben Hoodless
IFPA A-NZ
Tel: +61 408 114 971