Cooperative Business New Zealand (CBNZ), the peak body representing the nation’s thriving cooperative and mutual sector, has undergone a significant leadership refresh following its 44th Annual General Meeting. The organization has appointed a new chair, added two high-profile directors, and confirmed the re-election of a key board member, signaling a strategic evolution as the sector looks to modernize its influence in a rapidly digitizing economy.
## A New Era of Leadership for New Zealand Co-operatives
Garry Diack, the current CEO of the agri-cooperative giant Ravensdown, has been named the new chair of Cooperative Business New Zealand. Diack steps into the role following the five-year tenure of Mike Brown, who has been instrumental in steering the organization through a period of substantial development.
Diack arrives with a deep pedigree in governance and executive management, having previously led Tait Communications and held interim CEO responsibilities at Solid Energy Ltd. His background also includes significant involvement in the historical industry mergers that established the Fonterra dairy powerhouse. As chair, Diack is tasked with ensuring the cooperative model remains a robust, competitive, and sustainable alternative to traditional corporate structures in the modern New Zealand market.
“I’m looking forward to building on the work of the board and supporting the association as it continues to champion the interests of co-operatives and mutuals across New Zealand,” Diack stated following his appointment.
## Strengthening Governance with Specialist Expertise
The board expansion introduces fresh perspectives designed to address the complex challenges facing today’s member-owned businesses. Joining the board as a new member director is Simon Burden, CEO of the construction supply cooperative BuildLink Group, who brings essential experience from the retail and trade sectors. Additionally, the appointment of Mike O’Connor—founder of business advisory firm O’Connor Partners—as an independent director adds a layer of specialized knowledge regarding capital structures and financial performance.
These appointments are complemented by the re-election of Dan Meiklejohn, chair of the Independent Optometry Group, whose continued presence ensures institutional continuity. The organization also acknowledged the departure of independent director Simon Tucker of Fonterra, whose contributions to the board’s strategic insight were noted as highly valuable.
## The Digital Imperative: Advocacy in a Tech-Driven Economy
While the cooperative model is rooted in traditional values of mutual ownership and community support, CBNZ is increasingly focusing on how its members can leverage modern technology to thrive. In an era where AI, data analytics, and cloud-based Google productivity tools are fundamentally changing how businesses interact with members, the new board is expected to prioritize digital transformation.
For many cooperatives, the transition to AI-integrated workflows and sophisticated data management is no longer optional. These tools enable smaller, member-owned entities to compete with larger, investor-owned corporations by streamlining supply chains, improving member engagement, and optimizing financial decision-making.
Saya Wahrlich, CEO of CBNZ, emphasized that the board’s new composition provides the “experience, continuity, and new perspectives” required to navigate this landscape. As the organization pushes for stronger advocacy, the emphasis will likely shift toward equipping members with the digital resources needed to modernize.
“Co-operatives and mutuals play a significant role in New Zealand’s economy,” Wahrlich said. “With Garry’s leadership and the expertise of our incoming and continuing directors, we are well positioned to strengthen our advocacy, support our members, and help ensure cooperative businesses continue to thrive.”
As the board prepares for the year ahead, the integration of new governance expertise and a commitment to technological advancement will be central to the association’s mission of keeping the cooperative model vital and relevant in the modern economic landscape.
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