The Associate Director on the FMG Board of Directors is just one of the ways we do this. The role provides a unique opportunity for an emerging agri-professional to join the FMG Board of directors for two years gaining first hand experience in governance process and board discussions, all contributing to developing critical leadership skills to help drive the future of the Primary Sector.
Jackie Dalziel is the current Associate Director and shares some of her reflections on her first year in the role.
Jackie’s governance journey began four years ago as the first female Director at the Lower Waitaki Irrigation Company, where she realised that experience is key to learning governance. This inspired her to apply for FMG’s Associate Director role. “The opportunity seemed like a great match, as I’m passionate about the ag sector but also interested in broadening that knowledge.”
Over the past year, Jackie has valued the Board’s mentorship, “They’ve really welcomed me and are so willing to explain things to me while at the same time pushing me to perform as an Associate Director,”
“This role isn’t just about attending a few meetings, it’s about constantly being better - growing my knowledge, my network, my skills…”
Jackie shared her appreciation for how FMG embraces mutuality. “The Mutual values are at the core of every single decision the FMG Board makes. It means people who really ‘get it’ are on the Board, and that we get a say in who those people are.”
Jackie acknowledges that applying for Director positions can be challenging, noting “They can be daunting and the election process for Co-operatives and Mutuals in the agriculture industry can be brutal.” She advocates for other organisations to offer Associate Director roles. “Getting that ‘middle of the road’ role creates a pathway for new Directors to be more role ready.”
Jackie urges aspiring leaders to find a Board that aligns with their values and take the leap, adding, “In New Zealand, we are fortunate to have an amazing primary industry. But we do, and always will, need to protect that through good governance. So, we need people to be brave and have a go, but also to do it well.”
Jackie believes the FMG Associate Director role has been invaluable, encouraging others to apply when it next becomes available in 2026. “If you’ve had a taste for governance and you’re interested in developing further, then the FMG Associate Director role is definitely worth applying for.”
FMG’s Chief People Officer, Nicki MacKay, shared, “FMG’s Associate Director role is a powerful way we invest in the future of governance and promote leadership in rural New Zealand. It equips emerging leaders with experience to uphold mutual values, strengthen the long-term sustainability of FMG, and bring fresh perspectives to the boardroom.”*
*The FMG Associate Director role does not have voting rights, and whilst expenses are covered to attend meeting, it’s an unpaid position.
