Veteran exec joins Corson board

Well-known Gisborne-based agribusiness executive Richard Burke has joined the board of directors at Corson Grain.

“The depth of experience he brings to the table will be invaluable particularly in developing markets and understanding the dynamics of local maize growing market in Gisborne,” the company says.

Burke spent over 30 years with LeaderBrand, starting as a tractor driver and finishing up as chief executive for 14 years before stepping down at the end of 2024. He is described as having been pivotal in changing the company’s direction from export to the domestic market, and instrumental in development and construction of LeaderBrand’s state-of-the-art processing plant, head office, and distribution centre as well as the development of its Future Farm’s greenhouse.

Currently a director of Gisborne Holdings, the commerical arm of Gisborne District Council, he also runs an agribusiness consultancy business.