CEO of one of New Zealand’s largest exporters steps down
Federated Farmers acknowledges the good work done by retiring Silver Fern Farms’ Chief Executive Keith Cooper. Silver
Fern Farms is a big contributor to New Zealand’s number two merchandise export; red meat.
“Keith Cooper’s larger than life personality will be sorely missed,” says Rick Powdrell, Federated Farmers Meat & Fibre Chairperson.
“Like all of us, Keith was not without his faults but here was a guy who at least had a vision for the red meat industry
and was prepared to back himself and Silver Fern Farms.
“Keith has used his leadership position to innovate in terms of branded meal sized packaged portions through to the
Kotahi freight procurement, management and optimisation joint venture with Fonterra.
“He even advertised branded meat products on television using wit and not cliché.
“Keith’s time at the helm of Silver Fern Farms coincided with some of the worst of times to be in red meat, which has
now given way to some of the best of times. I think our members will be looking to his successor for how better recent
returns can be locked-in and built upon.
“Keith seems to be leaving a leaner and hungrier Silver Fern Farms, which, if press reports are correct, may be turning
the corner financially.
“One thing about Keith is that you knew where you stood with him.
“He was not afraid to have a position and while at times that positon may not have been one that Federated Farmers or
our members always liked, at least you could talk to him straight.
“We also don’t think we’ve heard the last of Keith Cooper,” Mr Powdrell concluded.
ends