About
Fert Research structure is three permanent staff, plus a Management Board and a Technical Committee.
Technical Director
Dr Hilton Furness is responsible for the implementation of Fert Research policy in relation to:
- Research
- Sustainability issues
- Environmental issues
- Resource Management Act
- Local authority and central government planning
He is Fert Research’s representative on a range of external committees and also takes part in a number of industry and government discussion groups. He is a regular speaker at international and local conferences, as well as undertaking presentations to a range of organisations.
Dr Furness has an in-depth knowledge of the fertiliser industry in New Zealand and internationally. He has published more than 50 scientific papers, conference proceedings and papers, major reports and theses.
Technical Manager
Greg Sneath is Fert Research’s Technical Manager. Greg provides representation at a range of industry groups and provides technical support and assistance for the Technical Director.
Office Manager
Diane Dowle is Fert Research’s Office Manager. Diane provides the office and financial administration functions required to ensure the smooth operation of Fert Research.
Management Board
The Board is responsible for setting the policy direction of Fert Research.
Board members are:
- The chairman from each member company; Bill McLeod (Ravensdown) and David Graham (Ballance)
- The two chief executives of the member companies; Rodney Green (Ravensdown) and Larry Bilodeau (Ballance)
- 2 Technical representatives
- The Technical Director
The Management Board is currently chaired by David Graham.
Technical Committee
The Committee makes recommendations to the Board on research funding, and also provides technical advice to the Management Board on a wide range of industry issues.