Hub leader moves to new pastures

After nearly three years, Southern Dairy Hub general manager Andrea Dixon is stepping down to focus on the next step in her career, family and personal priorities.

Andrea Dixon.

“I’m extremely proud of what we’ve achieved over the last, almost, three years. The Hub is an incredible farm, and our new demonstration focus means we can get meaningful insights to our farmers in real time,” she says.

“Working with DairyNZ, Southern Dairy Development Trust and Bioeconomy Science Institute (previously AgResearch) has been a privilege, but it’s the southern farmers who make this job special.

“Knowing the work we do at the hub provides farmers with critical information, making a real contribution to their farm’s prosperity, has been a driving force for me.”

Simon Flood, chair of the hub board, says Dixon has been a wonderful general manager, keeping the ship steady as it updated its strategy and pivoted to a demonstration mode.

“We will miss Andrea’s passion, leadership and strategic thinking, and thank her for her contribution and wish her every success as she starts a new chapter in her life.

“We are indebted to her for her commitment and dedication for the Hub, and I cannot speak highly enough about Andrea’s capability and can-do attitude.”

Recruitment for Dixon’s successor is underway.

“The SDH general manager role is totally unique, with a clear mandate to support southern farmers as they strive to improve not only their sustainability, but also productivity and profitability in a rapidly moving environment,” Flood says.