New President For Export New Zealand

Rob Jeffrey steps into role of Export New Zealand National President

Media Release 20 February 2008

Jeffco International Managing Director Rob Jeffrey is stepping into the role of Export New Zealand National President. A National Board member and former Export New Zealand BOP President, Mr Jeffrey brings more than 40 years of exceptional achievement and outstanding contribution to the export sector.

Fellow Bay of Plenty resident Jon Mayson, former Port of Tauranga CEO, is stepping down as National President to take up the role of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) board chairman.

“We’re delighted to have Jon Mayson’s passion and fire for exporting at NZTE,” said Bob Walters, CEO of Export New Zealand. “We appreciate the tremendous work and support Jon has given us during his time as National President of Export New Zealand. Over many years his regional and national leadership gave Export NZ depth and strength.”

Mr Mayson has had a long association with Export New Zealand, providing it with the benefit of his unflagging support and enthusiasm. He was with the Port for 33 years, the last decade as chief executive. Under his stewardship Tauranga grew to be the country’s largest export port and was one of the best performers on the NZX.

“Rob Jeffrey is a very experienced exporter with years of exporting into Asia and other markets. He will maintain the tradition of strong leadership of Export New Zealand in the private sector,” said.

“Export New Zealand in moving forward will continue to consolidate its relationships with other business forums” Mr Jeffrey said. “We will continue to improve in delivery of member services, networking and educational programmes and providing assistance to exporters.”

Mr Jeffrey's background is in the agricultural sector, having held a number of executive positions in the dairy and pork industries. His family company, Tauranga-based Jeffco International Ltd, has been involved in export since 1960, mainly in livestock and the agri-business sector. Jeffco incorporates land investment, livestock export/import, agri-business and consulting services, fruit processing and freight services.

In 2004, Mr Jeffrey was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to agriculture and export.

“New Zealand companies need to get better at working together and networking to take advantage of opportunities in the global marketplace,” Mr Jeffrey said.

Export New Zealand is pleased to welcome Mr Jeffrey as National President and congratulates Mr Mayson as he moves on to his new role. Export New Zealand is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), not-for-profit incorporated society with national coverage. Export NZ focuses on helping its membership of exporters and exporter service providers, grow their business in the international market place.

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