Former PGG Wrightson chief executive Barry Brook has been elected chairman of independent Canterbury milk processor, Synlait Ltd.
In a shuffling of seats, he succeeds Graeme Milne who retired to become chairman of Synlait Milk, the processing arm of the business which is 51% owned by Chinese company Bright Dairy.
"Barry brings extensive experience in agribusiness both in New Zealand and internationally, particularly in building and developing farming businesses," Synlait chief executive John Penno said.
He told yesterday's annual meeting a focus on improving pasture and cost management was providing productivity gains on Synlait farms.
Milk production in the 2009 season rose 14% and costs fell, boosting operating earning.
Production for the season was up a further 10%, he said.
He said construction of a second drier and packaging plant at Synlait Milk, doubling capacity, was on schedule for commissioning in September.
