CEO of Australian Dairy Farmers announces resignation

Natalie Collard, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) has announced she will step down from her role on 10 April 2015, after six outstanding years at the helm.

Ms Collard said she had thrived on the challenges and reaped the rewards of an exciting period for both ADF and for dairy.

“Dairy farmers are proud and passionate people, and to represent them on a national level has been an honour,” Ms Collard said.

Ms Collard said while she valued every moment of her time at ADF, she is now seeking her next career challenge.

ADF President, Noel Campbell paid homage to Ms Collard’s extraordinary leadership, and tireless dedication to Australian dairy, which has elevated the industry’s profile in both the community and Parliament.

“Natalie’s record speaks for itself. She is always striving for new ways to improve the profitability and sustainability of dairy and her proactive, innovative and considered approach has improved the quality and effectiveness of our organisation,” Mr Campbell said.

“She has fought hard for farmers on key issues such as $1 per litre milk and implemented imperative dairy policies, such as the Australian Dairy Vision and the Australian Dairy Industry Sustainability Framework.

Most recently, her strong advocacy efforts on the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement contributed to a positive outcome for dairy – one that will improve the long term sustainability of our industry.”

Recognising her outstanding leadership role toward attaining this pro-dairy deal, Ms Collard was awarded an Australian Dairy Farmers’ President’s Commendation in December 2014.

As CEO since 2009, Ms Collard has led ADF through the modernisation of its governance structure – a move that saw 50 per cent income growth leading to a positive change in the balance sheet after many years.

She also played a major role in establishing direct processor funding to the Australian Dairy Industry Council (ADIC), a whole-of-value chain policy and advocacy model that is the first of its kind in Australian agriculture.

In 2013 Ms Collard was recognised for her exceptional dedication and success as ADF’s CEO, awarded the Victorian Telstra Business Woman of the Year for service to Community and Government.

A firm believer in inspiring change, Ms Collard has been a strong advocate for youth in agriculture and mentor to young women in dairy, engaging with over 400 students at speaking events in 2014 alone.

Ms Collard thanked ADF, its board, staff, farmer members and industry partners for their support throughout her time at ADF.

“This is an exciting and important time for dairy,” Ms Collard said. “I would recommend anyone seeking to lead a dedicated team of individuals in an extremely worthwhile cause to take up this opportunity – to drive sustainable profitability of dairy farmers across Australia.”

Mr Campbell said that Ms Collard has gained many friends in the industry; all of whom look forward to watching her succeed in future.

The ADF Board will soon commence recruitment for a new CEO. All inquiries should be directed to the ADF Office via (03) 8621 4200.

Media Contact:

Shona McPherson, Media Officer

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au

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