FANIE FERREIRA APPOINTED AS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE MILK PRODUCERS’ ORGANISATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | 9 March 2022

The MPO board has appointed Fanie Ferreira,  the chairman of the MPO Northern region and an MPO director, as its interim chief executive for the period 1 March to 31 December 2022.

“I am privileged to lead the MPO for the transition period and to work closely with our value chain partners to support and promote milk and the cause of the South African milk producer. It is a pleasure to work closely with such a variety of professional bodies at such an important time for milk”, says Ferreira.

Ferreira began his new role on 1 March, after Gerhard Kriel had resigned as chief executive in February. He brings with him more than 35 years of dairy farming experience and the practical restructuring experience of the past year. Despite several challenges in the industry, Ferreira is still excited about the prospects and opportunities the dairy industry offers.

“We are grateful that Fanie will lead the team at the MPO for the rest of the year. He brings consistency and sound management through his experience. In just one year, the MPO has put its words into action to build a strong, sincere connection with its members”, said Colin Wellbeloved, chairman of the MPO board. “With Fanie’s leadership, we look forward to strategically entering new markets and strengthening key partnerships.”

“Farmers are entrepreneurs who face stiff competition and operate in a demanding industry. Every day our lives become more complex, and the high expectations of the government and our consumers put us under constant pressure. These challenges are why I am committed to promoting the sustainable prosperity of milk producers”, says Ferreira.

Ferreira encourages his fellow milk producers to stick with dairy farming and not leave the industry. More than ever before, farmers need to team up with competent partners who understand the realities of the sector. According to him, everything that is worthwhile comes with time and effort.

“Over the next few months, my goal will be to effectively orchestrate the strategic vision of the 2027 roadmap and to work closely with value chain partners and dairy farmers to address burning dairy issues.” Ferreira will also lead the recruitment process for his replacement in 2023.

END

Issued by AgriConnect

On behalf of the Milk Producers’ Organisation

For more information: Colin Wellbeloved | 082 498 7838 | melrosefarm@iuncapped.co.za or Fanie Ferreira | 083 453 9339 | fanief@mpo.co.za