Collaboration vital for sector: new CEO

A government focus on primary sector growth, alongside increasing concerns about the environment, poses challenges for the future of the agricultural sector, Ravensdown's new chief executive, Greg Campbell, says.

It was important all sections of the industry worked together to achieve desired outcomes, Mr Campbell, who started work this month, said.

The sector was the ''pillar of New Zealand's economic prosperity'' and it was important soil, water and air was managed in a sustainable manner.

''Carefully managed pasture-based production is the best way to meet our output targets while taking care of the environment,'' he said.

Mr Campbell, who replaced Rodney Green who retired after nearly 16 years in the position, was previously chief executive of Ngai Tahu Holdings Group. He is on the board of various companies and is a past board member of PGG Wrightson.

He has experience in infrastructure, petroleum, rural and waste management. He is based in Ravensdown's head office in Christchurch, leading a team of more than 680 employees in New Zealand and Australia.

The co-operative structure of Ravensdown appealed to him, as the company was ''not driven by share price or short-term focus'', he said.

''Essentially, the profits are returned to our owners and customers. We are able to invest in products and services that will underpin the company, our owners' businesses and the future of New Zealand agriculture.''

Mr Campbell's initial focus was to meet as many staff, suppliers and shareholders as he could.