Experienced food industry executive takes the reins.
Food and beverage industry leader Craig Orr has been appointed chief executive of New Zealand Hops Ltd (NZHL).
New Zealand Hops is a contemporary grower co-operative, based in Nelson, Tasman, the only region commercially growing hops in New Zealand. The co-operative represents the interests of 28 growers, many of whom are intergenerational families, having grown hops in the region for more than 150 years.
The co-ordination of the industry was initiated in 1939, with the inception of the New Zealand Hop Marketing Board. Now, New Zealand Hops facilitates the export of 80% of harvest to more than 40 countries. New Zealand grown hops are in demand, as the product is considered a premium offering, sought after worldwide.
Orr has built a strong career in New Zealand’s food industry with leadership roles in Nestlé, Lion, SunRice and Moana New Zealand and has lived and worked extensively overseas.
“In our search for our new CEO, it was Craig’s outstanding enthusiasm, insight and experience that shone through,” NZHL chair Paul Dalzell says. “He has built brands, and developed markets with great energy and is passionate about the New Zealand Hops story – of our people, provenance and our craft. We believe he has the right attributes to bring this all together and lead the organisation in a sustainable and impactful way for our growers and our partners around the world.”
Orr was born and raised in Taupo, and his whakapapa can be traced to Belfast, Northern Ireland and Atiu, Cook Islands. He will take up his new role in February.
This is supplied content and not commissioned or paid for by NBR.
