MG Group opens applications for Associate Director programme

The term is up to twelve months, starting in January 2026

Grower-owned co-operative and leading New Zealand fresh produce business, Market Gardeners Limited, trading as the MG Group, has opened applications for its Associate Director Programme.

The opportunity places one participant at the MG Board table with full speaking rights, a tailored induction, mentoring from an experienced Board member, and development aligned to the MG Board Capability Framework. “This programme gives emerging leaders a practical pathway to learn and contribute in a supported environment while gaining a clear view of how our Board operates,” said MG Group Board Member, Trudi Webb. “We are seeking candidates with the potential to progress towards a future director role within our co-operative.”

The initiative reflects MG Group’s commitment to strengthening its governance pipeline and encouraging the next generation of grower leaders to develop their capability in a
real boardroom setting. The term is up to twelve months, starting in January 2026. Eligible candidates include MG shareholders who are Current Producers, family members of those shareholders, and related parties connected to transacting shareholders or those likely to become transacting shareholders in the future

To ensure a transparent and robust recruitment process, MG Group has engaged independent consultancy Decipher Group to support the search and selection of
candidates. Those interested can find full details and apply through the Decipher Group website at www.deciphergroup.co.nz/jobs/associate-director, with applications closing on Friday, 7 November 2025.

About the company

MG Group, New Zealand’s leading grower-owned fresh produce cooperative, is pleased to invite applications for our Associate Director Programme. This 12-month development opportunity is designed to prepare a potential MG Director by providing the opportunity to sit at the MG Board table, gain first-hand governance experience, mentoring and development with also having the chance to contribute to the future direction of our co-operative.

About the opportunity

As an Associate Director, you will:

Sit at the MG Board table for up to 12-month term, beginning January 2026.
Receive full Board papers and attend all Board meetings with full speaking rights.
Take part in a tailored induction programme designed to set you up for success.
Benefit from ongoing mentoring by an experienced MG Board member.
Undertake governance development, including courses such as the Institute of Directors’ Governance Essentials.
Gain unique exposure to governance in one of New Zealand’s leading fresh produce organisations.

This programme provides a rare opportunity to learn in a practical, real-world boardroom environment while contributing your own skills and perspectives.

About you

We are seeking applicants who can demonstrate:

Commercial and leadership experience with the ability to bring valuable insights to Board discussions.
Strong communication skills and the ability to exercise sound judgement.
A clear motivation to develop the capability needed to contribute as a potential grower director in the future.
Commitment to governance learning and a genuine interest in serving on the MG Board in the future.
Motivation to contribute positively to MG Group, our grower shareholders, and the wider produce industry.
Willingness to commit time, including preparation, attendance at monthly Board meetings, induction activities, and the Annual Meeting.

Eligibility

Applications are invited from:

MG shareholders who are Current Producers.
Family members of shareholders who are Current Producers.
Related parties who are connected to transacting shareholders, or those likely to become transacting shareholders in the future.

Applicants must be able to travel to meetings and induction activities as required.

Why Apply?

You will develop practical governance capability in a supportive environment, work alongside experienced directors, and gain insights that cannot be replicated through study alone. This role is a proven pathway to future governance opportunities within MG Group and the broader horticulture sector.

How to apply

To discover more about MG Group, visit https://www.mggroup.co.nz/

For a confidential discussion about the role, contact Elise Elliott on M: 021 243 7018 or E: elise@deciphergroup.co.nz

Please apply with a cover letter detailing your interest in the position and confirming your eligibility as noted.

Cover image – Trudi Webb MG Group Board-Member

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