Farmers' Mutual Group Appoints New Chief Executive

Farmers’ Mutual Group today announced the appointment of their new Chief Executive, Gordon Smith, who will take up the position on 8 January 2001.

“Gordon joins us from Rabobank where he has been National Manager Credit. He brings extensive financial services experience and an affinity for the rural sector, having previously held positions with Wrightson Finance and Trustbank’s Central Region,” said John Wills, Chairman of Farmers’ Mutual Group.

He replaces Michael Millar who in August announced his intention to move on in the New Year after seven years with Farmers’ Mutual.

“Gordon is renowned for strong leadership skills and customer focus, and brings significant experience in managing change and building successful business to his new position, ” Mr Wills says.

“In searching for a new Chief Executive, we wanted to appoint someone who had extensive financial services experience and who understood the needs of rural communities. Gordon’s experience and background will provide Farmers’ Mutual with the leadership to further reinforce our position as the financial services provider of choice to rural New Zealand.”

Gordon is married with two adult children and will be moving from Wellington to Palmerston North in early 2001.

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
John Wills Telephone: (06) 834 9701
Chairman (025) 242 8303
Farmers’ Mutual Group
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Farmers’ Mutual Group
Farmers’ Mutual Group is New Zealand’s leading rural financial services organisation. Established in 1905 as a rural insurer, it has grown into a financial services group adding finance and investment to its portfolio of services but has remained focused on serving the needs of rural communities.

Issued by Shandwick International on behalf of Farmers’ Mutual Group – Tel: 04 472 4190

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