Potatoes New Zealand connects with various women in the industry as part of International Women’s Day to discover the amazing work they do in the sector.
Name: Kate Trufitt
Company: Potatoes New Zealand
What do you do in your current role?
My role is the chief executive officer for Potatoes New Zealand.
What do you particularly enjoy about it?
Horticulture is an amazing sector to work in, no two days are the same. There are always different changes, challenges and opportunities.
I really enjoy my role at Potatoes New Zealand; I have been in the role for 6 months and have learnt a huge amount in that time about arable farming.
Have you encountered any specific challenges?
We all encounter moments in our working life that we can’t see how to move on past something, this is where mentors and support networks come in having those people to talk through issues so you can see you way through a particular challenge.
Please share any standout moments in your life?
I am very proud to have been in governance roles for the horticulture industry and been given the opportunity to be in leadership roles, culminating in my current role.
What does your organisation do for inclusion and diversity?
Being new I haven’t developed a policy yet but being an equal, diverse and inclusive workplace is a must today.
If you embrace individual differences, there is the opportunity for everyone to add value to the workplace.
What do you wish you had known before you started in your profession?
Don’t be afraid to stand out from the pack and take opportunities as they arise.
What would you tell another woman interested in working in the potato industry/primary industries?
There are so many amazing opportunities in the Primary Sector, especially horticulture. It isn’t just about driving a tractor, there are so many roles that sit behind growing great produce. Women I know sit in the following roles, H&S Manager, People Manager, Production Manager, Orchard Manager, CE Sector Group, Food Safety Manager they are all keen to talk to women wanting to join the industry.
International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women’s achievements or rally for women’s equality. Find out more at www.internationalwomensday.com