2026 Nuffield NZ Farming Scholarship. Apply by 17 August 2025. Read More...

Apply for 2026 Nuffield NZ Farming Scholarship by 17 August 2025. More details...

Gumboots on the ground approach to role-value in the food and fibre sector.

Megan Fox

Executive Summary

This research report explores role-value within The Food and Fibre Sector (TF&FS) in New Zealand, aiming to align traditional workplace practices with the expectations of Generation Z. Through an analysis of KPIs, salary benchmarks, and employee perspectives. The report offers strategic recommendations to redefine role-value, enhance business performance, and foster career development.

Key findings reveal a significant gap between conventional management methods and the preferences of Generation Z, emphasising clear communication, regular feedback, and personal engagement. The report integrates motivational theories to underscore their impact on job satisfaction and performance.

Focusing on KPI frameworks, enhancing communication channels, maintaining competitive salaries, and aligning roles with personal values aids in creating role-vale. Flexible work arrangements and continuous professional development are crucial for maintaining sector demands. Strategic insights aim to attract and support talent within TF&FS, contributing to sector sustainability and growth.

Recommendations:

For Businesses:

  • Schedule regular KPI reviews with SMART objectives.
  • Introduce flexible working hours, especially during off-peak seasons.
  • Train managers in supportive, flexible leadership practices.
  • Develop comprehensive training programs and career progression plans.
  • Establish regular communication channels and open forums.
  • Conduct annual salary reviews and collaborate with industry to create standards.

For Early Career Contributors:

  • Schedule frequent one-on-one meetings with managers.
  • Identify preferred feedback styles and maintain transparent communication.
  • Initiate regular KPI discussions to monitor performance.
  • Maintain records of accomplishments for performance evaluations.
  • Seek mentorship from industry professionals.
  • Set boundaries to maintain work-life balance.
  • Define personal values and goals through a purpose statement.
  • Embrace continuous learning for leadership development.

Implementing these recommendations enhances organisational effectiveness, attracts talent, and supports career growth in the dynamic Food and Fibre sector in New Zealand.

Megan Fox

Grow. Advance. Lead.

Do the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme.

More Kellogg reports:

2025

Overcoming Barriers to Data Interoperability Within New Zealand’s Wine Industry

NZ wine confronts rising costs and unpredictable markets. This report by Zac Howell reveals how smarter data use, strong governance, and industry trust can unlock ...
Read More →
2025

Trading in Turbulent Times: Positioning New Zealand’s Global Food Trade, in a Shifting Global Order

NZ’s food exports depend on strong global partnerships and market trust. This report by Olivia Smith explores how innovation, integrity, and strategic investment, not volume ...
Read More →
2025

What are the Key Considerations of Weighing Technology Adoption on Sheep and Beef Farms in NZ?

This report by Campbell Smith looks at the adoption of livestock weighing tech lags due to trust, usability, integration, support, cost thresholds, and peer influence ...
Read More →