Miles Hurrell: Leadership in the Dairy Industry

Position: CEO of Fonterra

Biography: Miles Hurrell has emerged as a pivotal figure in the global dairy sector, showcasing his leadership at Fonterra, the world's leading dairy cooperative. While specifics of his early career are scarce, his rapid rise within the company highlights his deep understanding and expertise in the dairy market. His strategic acumen has been instrumental in steering Fonterra towards greater global prominence.

Current Place of Work: Fonterra

Important Events in Miles Hurrell's Career

• March 8, 2022: Announced strategic modifications to Fonterra's operations in Australia, enhancing capital returns while maintaining a strong market presence.
• Repositioning in Malaysia: Initiated divestment plans for specific global consumer segments to bolster financial stability and explore expansion opportunities.
• Advocacy for Sustainability: Engaged with community groups like Don't Burn Waipā, incorporating feedback into Fonterra's sustainability strategies.
• Addressing Industry Challenges: Advocated strategies to combat challenges such as declining milk supply, ensuring resilience and competitiveness.
• Divestment Decisions: Supported strategic divestments in regions like Oceania and Sri Lanka, aligning with Fonterra's broader strategic goals.
• Trade Concerns: Voiced concerns about international trade policies, particularly U.S. tariffs, and their effects on New Zealand's dairy exports.
• Legislative Engagement: Advocated for an extension on the GMO bill submission period, demonstrating involvement in legislative matters impacting the dairy industry.

Under Hurrell's guidance, Fonterra continues to navigate global challenges with a dynamic and adaptive approach, striving for long-term sustainable value creation within the dairy market. Miles Hurrell remains optimistic about Fonterra's strategy, focusing on core business areas such as Ingredients and Foodservice. He maintains that while the forecast is wide, from eight dollars to eleven dollars, there is currently more downside than upside risk, due to the volatility of global markets. He emphasized the importance of being prepared for potential market shifts.

Fonterra’s Chief Executive: Miles Hurrell emphasized Fonterra's focus on delivering robust shareholder returns through earnings and farmgate milk price, having provided a 22-cent interim dividend for the financial year 2025.

Modified: 2025/05/18