Nominations open for Rabobank leadership awards

Last year, the two industry accolades, the Rabobank Leadership Award and the Rabobank Emerging Leader Award went to chief executive officer of Nuffield International Jim Geltch and AACo chief operating officer Anna Speer.

Announcing the opening of nominations for the 2019 awards, Rabobank Australia and New Zealand Group managing director Peter Knoblanche said this year, for the first time in the trans-Tasman award's history, the presentation ceremony would be held in New Zealand.

"In the 20 years we have been involved in the awards, leaders have been recognised on both sides of the Tasman in sectors including wine, dairy, beef, grains and horticulture and across many fields, such as scientists, economists, educators and researchers," he said.

"The contribution these leaders have made to their own industries, the agricultural sector in general, and their communities is nothing short of inspirational. Their leadership, courage, passion and foresight has seen them carve a path, as they often take the road not travelled to get to where they are today.

"This was epitomised by last year's winners, with Jim Geltch recognised for developing and engaging young people in agriculture via the Nuffield agricultural scholarships while Anna Speer has, in her relatively short tenure in the industry, carved a successful career in the livestock sector as an advocate for innovation and change."

Award nominations close on August 9 with the winner to be announced in Auckland on November 28.

Nominations for both awards, together with the judging criteria, can be made at www.rabobank.com.au/leadership-awards