Job Description

Independent Director

Applicant location: National

Term: 3 years

Time commitment: 1-2 days per month, 6 meetings per year

Remuneration: $60,000 per annum

Position Description

Hill Labs, founded in 1984, is a highly successful family-owned business with more than 500 employees across six locations nationwide. As New Zealand’s leading provider of analytical testing services for the environmental, agricultural, and food sectors, the company is pursuing an ambitious growth strategy supported by significant technology investments.

We are seeking an Independent Director to bring operational and governance expertise to the Board, which currently includes three family members and an independent Chair. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in IT governance, risk management, and performance optimisation to help advance the company’s growth objectives and uphold their commitment to organisational excellence.

Key requirements for the role

Experience:

• Has been a senior executive in a medium or large private sector entity.
• Has substantial knowledge of primary industries, ideally food or dairy.
• Ideally, has led an IT function or has been responsible for a significant IT implementation.
• Ideally has governed a private sector entity, but at a minimum has worked with boards and understands the difference between management and governance.
• Leadership of health & safety and/or risk management would also be valuable.

Competencies:

• Either a science tertiary qualification or science-related qualification (e.g. Vet, engineer) and work experience in a science-heavy industry.
• A strong operational leader who understands what it takes to run lean and efficient organisations.
• A good understanding of management financial reports and able to translate the numbers into tangible actions to improve short-term profitability.
• Brings an existing network in the food industry.

Personal Characteristics:

• Is excited about the way that applied science supports NZ’s aspirations.
• A tactically inclined thinker.
• Enjoys optimising performance and eliminating waste.
• Open and curious rather than opinionated or aggressive.

Application process

To apply, submit your cover letter and resume by Friday, 19 September. Shortlisting will begin in late September, with interviews scheduled for mid-October.

For a confidential discussion, contact Jane Temel, Director, Niche Recruitment on 021 499 902.

Information pack