New Board Chair
20 Feb 2026
Experienced Farmer and Industry Leader Shane McManaway Appointed Chair of Growing Future Farmers
Growing Future Farmers (GFF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Shane McManaway as its new Board Chair, bringing extensive hands-on farming experience, business leadership and a deep commitment to supporting the next generation of future-ready agricultural professionals.
Based in the Wairarapa, Shane and his wife Lynnette own and operate Gold Creek Charolais and Deer farm and Ongaha Station - extensive sheep, beef and dairy enterprises. His diverse farming background spans multiple sectors and regions, giving him practical insight into the realities facing young farmers across New Zealand.
Beyond his own farming enterprises, Shane is widely respected across New Zealand and internationally for his contribution to agribusiness and leadership development. As Founder and Chair of the Zanda McDonald Award, he has built one of Australasia’s most prestigious agricultural leadership platforms, connecting emerging leaders with mentors and networks across the sector. Awarded a New Zealand Order of Merit for services to agriculture and the community, Shane combines grassroots credibility with strategic perspective and a strong understanding of the evolving commercial landscape in which modern agriculture operates.
“Young farmers are the lifeblood of New Zealand agriculture, and they deserve not just opportunity, but connection, capability and confidence to lead,” Shane says. “Growing Future Farmers has a real role to play in developing people who are ready for the future of our sector.”
GFF Chief Executive Wendy Paul welcomed Shane’s appointment, “Shane brings a strong purpose-led focus to everything he does. He understands that developing future-ready farmers is fundamental to the resilience and prosperity of our primary sector”.
“His credibility on farm and influence across the industry will help us elevate the conversation around talent development - not just as a programme issue, but as a sector-wide opportunity. If we can work more collaboratively across the full people pathway - from awareness and attraction through to capability, progression and leadership - the potential for enduring impact is significant.”
Board Transition
Shane succeeds Brad Tatere, who steps down as Chair after leading the organisation through its most recent phase of growth and consolidation.
During his tenure, Brad played a significant role in guiding GFF from its early-stage development into a more nationally recognised and professionally governed organisation. Under his leadership, the Board strengthened governance systems, expanded strategic partnerships and supported the organisation’s transition from start-up energy to a more structured and sustainable operating model.
“Brad provided steady leadership at an important point in GFF’s journey,” says Wendy. “He helped shape the move from early momentum to a more mature organisation. We are grateful for his commitment and stewardship.”
The Board also acknowledges Tam Jex-Blake, Founder of GFF, who is stepping down as a Trustee.
“It was Tam, and her husband Dan’s, original vision that brought GFF to life. Their belief in creating real, practical farming pathways for young people - particularly those who may not otherwise have had access - laid the foundation for what GFF has become today”, says Wendy.
Tam and Dan’s commitment to backing young people, supporting farmers and strengthening the future of New Zealand’s primary sector has shaped the character and purpose of the organisation from the outset.
“We acknowledge and thank them for their leadership and enduring commitment to making a meaningful difference in the industry,” says Wendy. “While Tam is stepping away from the Board, she remains one of our biggest champions. As founding members, we look forward to staying connected with both Tam and Dan and drawing on their insight and advocacy, ensuring their original vision, passion and intent remain front of mind - keeping it real as we move into our next phase.”
New Trustees Strengthen Governance Capability
Shane is joined by two new Trustees who bring complementary expertise to GFF’s governance, joining continuing Board members Annabelle Subtil, Jo Johnstone and Hamish Murray.
Dr Emma Blott is an experienced executive and governance leader in life sciences research and development. Her most recent role was General Manager (Commercial) at the Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC). Previously, she held senior commercial, M&A, R&D, innovation and strategy roles within the Fonterra Co-operative Group over a 14-year tenure, following earlier experience in investment banking.
Emma completed her PhD in Clinical Biochemistry at the University of Oxford and brings strong governance experience across agri-technology, research consortia and commercial subsidiaries. Emma is currently the inaugural Chair of Research Funding New Zealand and Director on Nbryo Pty Ltd and working with a number of agri start-ups in a commercial capacity. Her expertise in innovation, capital allocation and long-term strategy strengthens the Board’s ability to support GFF’s future-focused direction.
Troy Hobson brings extensive governance and executive leadership experience across agribusiness, finance, Māori commercial entities and vocational education. He currently serves on the Fonterra Co-operative Council and is Chair of Eastern and Central Community Trust, overseeing significant investment portfolios and regional impact initiatives. Troy was appointed to the Establishment Advisory Group and is now Deputy Chair of the Council for the reconstituted Universal College of Learning (UCOL).
With a background spanning farming, agribusiness banking and Māori enterprise leadership, Troy brings strong financial oversight, strategic clarity and a deep commitment to strengthening workforce pathways. His lived understanding of both employer and learner needs positions him well to support GFF’s continued growth and impact.
“Emma and Troy bring exactly the kind of capability and perspective we need as we position GFF for its next phase,” Shane says. “Their backgrounds complement our farming foundations and strengthen our governance for the future.”
Under Shane’s leadership, GFF will continue to equip young people with practical skills, confidence and real-world experience, while deepening collaboration across industry, education and community partners and consider how we elevate the future farmer aspect of the programme, noting the rapidly changing landscape that will require new skillsets and mindsets into the future. We remain focused on our shared purpose of Growing Future Farmers Together and the human transformation element of the GFF programme remaining central to what we do.
About Growing Future Farmers
Growing Future Farmers is New Zealand’s leading organisation dedicated to developing the next generation of farmers. Through practical training programmes, mentorship and industry connections, GFF equips young people aged 16–21 with the skills, knowledge and opportunities needed to build successful careers in agriculture.
For media enquiries, please contact Lee Cowan on 021 930 836