News

The Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) will welcome Kevin Argyle and Rowena Duncum as new trustees to its board at their Annual General Meeting later this month.

“The appointments of these passionate, skilled, and knowledgeable Trustees are set to make a bright future for DWN,” says DWN Board Chair, Trish Rankin.

Kevin Argyle, based in Manawatu, is a passionate dairy farmer and industry leader. With over 20 years of farming, senior executive and leadership experience across various sectors, including agriculture, tertiary education, consulting, and electricity, Kevin is known for his expertise in finance, strategy, operational management, and research and development. He aims to help take DWN to the next level to increase impact for the dairy sector and, most importantly, its members.

“I am excited to join the DWN Board to help shape the future strategy to help grow collaboration and partnership opportunities that will support the vision and aspirations of its members. It will provide me an opportunity to leverage my skills, experience, and network to contribute to cultivating and growing capability, sharing knowledge, and supporting DWN for a better future” says Kevin.

Rowena Duncum, based in Auckland, is a leading rural commentator and MC, with extensive experience in both dairy farming and media. Her previous roles have included working in Ireland and Wales, farming in Taranaki, and a role with LIC as a Farm Solutions Manager.

“The support, connection and opportunities to learn and grow that DWN offers is what motivated me to join the DWN Board,” said Rowena. “At the first DWN conference I attended, I was struck by how positive and uplifting everyone was. There was such a special vibe. I really look forward to continuing the incredible work that Trustees before me have put in.”

Rowena adds that although she isn’t from a farming family or background, the dairy sector has given her much enjoyment – as a farmer, employer, rural professional, and journalist. She loves being a part of it and having the opportunity to help others discover their enjoyment of it too.

Trish reflects that the high calibre of applications made the shortlisting extremely difficult and choosing who will join them around the board table challenging. She is sure people will agree that Kevin and Rowena will bring a mix of commercial, financial, and sector knowledge to our organisation.

“Both new Trustees have experience in being hands-on on-farm, as well as being involved in the sector in other roles. This blend of experience and skill means they have great empathy for the on-farm challenges, but also deep knowledge in helping pave the way for sector success.”

Having celebrated 25 years of DWN in 2023, the appointments of Kevin and Rowena come at a time when working together is vital to ensure that DWN has another successful 25 years and can continue to inspire for generations to come.

Along with chair Trish Rankin, Kevin and Rowena will join other trustees – Lucy Johnson, Jess Moore, Jenna Smith, and Associate Trustee Sarah Hopkins – filling the positions of outgoing trustees Donna Smit and Mark Heer.

-ENDS-

Photo: Supplied by DWN; DWN’s new Board Trustees, Kevin Argyle and Rowena Duncum

Media Contact:
Sarah van Munster
Insights and Media Manager
07 974 4852
media@dwn.org.nz