New Zealand Food Network (NZFN), the country's national food rescue and largest food support charity, has appointed two new members to its Board of Directors to guide the organisation through its next chapter of impact and growth.

The first is Ian Proudfoot, currently Global Head of Agribusiness at KPMG. Proudfoot brings over three decades of experience in auditing, governance, and strategic leadership in the agri-food sector, with deep networks across both New Zealand and international food systems.

Proudfoot is the lead author of the award-winning KPMG Agribusiness Agenda and played a key role in establishing the Mana Kai Initiative, which aims to transform New Zealand’s food system to be more inclusive and resilient.

He is widely regarded as a thought leader in sustainable food strategy, and his long-standing commitment to food system equity will be invaluable to NZFN’s mission.

Meanwhile, Wade Gillooly joins the Board as a director at Marmont Investments, with over 25 years of commercial and executive experience across the FMCG and food manufacturing sectors in New Zealand, Australia, and Asia.

A former CEO of ABE’S Real Bagels and Pitango, Gillooly has a proven track record in leading business growth, building high-performing teams, and delivering results in complex, multisite operations.

Wade is also deeply involved in the startup ecosystem, mentoring founders and helping build innovative food brands including Ārepa among others. His strategic mindset, governance acumen, and pragmatic leadership style will be a tremendous asset to NZFN.

NZFN Board Chair, Suneil Connor says he welcomes the new appointments. “During our thorough recruitment process, it became outstandingly clear that Ian and Wade had the deep industry experience and capability we were seeking, alongside a core alignment with NZFN’s mission. We’re so excited to officially welcome them as directors of NZFN.”

NZFN Chief Executive Officer, Gavin Findlay adds, “Their strategic insight and global perspective will be invaluable as we navigate one of the most challenging times for food security in Aotearoa. Both Ian and Wade bring a wealth of skills and experience that will strengthen our ability to respond to the growing demand for food support, and help shape a more sustainable future for NZFN and the communities we serve.”

About New Zealand Food Network

New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) is Aotearoa’s national food rescue and largest food support charity.

With distribution centres in Auckland and Christchurch, it accepts bulk surplus and donated food from food producers, growers and manufacturers and redistributes to more than 60 food hubs (regional food rescues, iwi, food banks and other charities) so that they may feed the communities they serve. Via these food hubs, NZFN ultimately serves a network of more than 2,000 frontline organisations across the country. NZFN’s services reduce GHG emissions from landfill and ensure a positive social impact by getting food to where it’s needed most.

NZFN’s operations are primarily funded by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to help address the issue of food insecurity nationwide. In addition to distributing donated food, NZFN purchases low-cost pantry staples and other household essentials with funds raised to help keep its Food Hubs well stocked. It also serves as procurement partner for registered Food Hubs to purchase food and can be activated in the event of an emergency to procure goods for MSD and government providers.

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