Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) spoke to new Associate Director and South Otago farmer Courtney Nimmo about what she wants to bring to the role, her passion for the industry and more.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) appointed Courtney Nimmo to its board as Associate Director in October 2021, replacing Wairarapa farmer Kate Wyeth who finished her one-year term.
Courtney Nimmo farms on a sheep, beef and grain property in South Otago alongside her partner Sam Wilson.
Courtney grew up on a sheep and beef property in Edievale, West Otago where a passion and respect for the sector was ignited. She completed a Bachelor of Agribusiness at Massey University, Dunedin, then returned to the South in 2013 where she has had various roles with Ballance Agri-Nutrients, currently the Regional Sales Manager for the Lower South Island.
Courtney also graduated from the Agri-Women’s Development Trust Escalator programme in 2020.
What is your favourite part of the Associate Director role?
"I really enjoy the helicopter view the role brings, in order to make long term strategic decisions that benefit the sector you have to think wider than yourself. You have to step back, look at things from various points of view, check your biases and although this can be challenging at times, it's also incredibly valuable. I have been lucky enough to meet many of the incredible team at B+LNZ and I have been so excited as a farmer and rural professional to see the passion and talent in this organisation. It truly is world class.”
What attracted you into the industry and to being an Associate Director?
"I've always been grateful for the life and experiences that our sector has offered me, I want to ensure that I do everything that I can to ensure current and future generations get their own experiences too. I'm driven to enable people to realise their potential and passionate talented people are what will ensure our sector thrives.”
What excites you?
"The opportunities in our sector that exist amongst the challenges we are facing. It's tough out there right now with numerous challenges on and off farm but we are tougher, we are innovative and we will continue to be world leading in our sector."
About the Associate Director role
The Associate Director is a one-year role established by B+LNZ to give aspiring leaders in the agricultural industry as opportunity to observe and participate in governance.
Courtney joins a Board of six farmer-elected Directors, two meat industry-appointed Directors and one independent Director. The Board is chaired by Southern South Island Director Andrew Morrison.