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: Ran Yamaguchi
Company: Talley’s
What do you do in your current role?
I am the Vegetable Processing Manager at Talley’s and also a member of the Senior Leadership Team. Over the last 14 years, I have worked in the QA/Compliance area focusing on product quality and food safety, with my most recent role being Compliance Manager. It has been an incredible journey. I started on the production floor, learning the fundamentals, and with the constant support from my team and the business, I have been able to grow into my current role. The journey from the floor to a Senior Leadership position has been a tremendous learning experience. I am proud of the progress I have made, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and mentorship along the way.
What do you particularly enjoy about it?
I truly enjoy working with the people here. The diversity and inclusivity of our culture are key aspects that make the environment so positive and collaborative. It is amazing to be part of a team that values every individual’s contribution and fosters such an engaging workplace.
I find that a diverse team is not only more innovative but also more resilient in facing challenges.
How long have you been with your organisation?
15 years.
How do you find working in the potato industry/primary industries?
It is fascinating! While we produce frozen French fries, there is so much more to the industry than just potatoes. The variety of raw materials we work with, and the complexity of the production process, makes it an exciting and ever-evolving field.
Every day brings new learning opportunities. The potato industry may seem simple at first glance, but it is full of challenges, and that is what makes it such a rewarding sector to be a part of.
Have you encountered any specific challenges?
We work with natural materials like potatoes, peas, corn, and carrots, which means the quality of raw materials can vary depending on the season, weather, and other environmental factors. This can sometimes make it challenging to maintain consistent quality.
Please share any standout moments in your life?
One standout moment for me was working overseas – I am originally from Japan. The experience of working in different countries has been life changing, helping me gain a broader perspective both personally and professionally.
Living and working abroad not only shaped my career but also taught me the importance of embracing diversity and learning from different cultures.
What does your organisation do for inclusion and diversity?
Our organisation is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity. We offer equal opportunities for growth and development for everyone, regardless of background, gender, ethnicity, or other characteristics. For example, our Senior Leadership Team consists of eight people, currently with an equal balance of four men and four women from diverse backgrounds, including Kiwi, South African, Scottish, Spanish, and Japanese.
We believe diversity in leadership brings fresh perspectives and drives innovation.
What or who inspires you?
My parents inspire me the most. Their work ethic and unwavering support have been my foundation. They both worked incredibly hard, not just in their careers but in every aspect of life. They were and continue to be amazing mentors to me, teaching me the value of dedication, resilience, and the importance of always striving for excellence. They have shaped who I am today, both personally and professionally.
I am also inspired by my partner—he is smart, works hard, and is a great daddy to our two little ‘munchkins.’ The munchkins are the best cheerleaders I could ask for and keep me going, even on the toughest days at work. Their love and support always put a smile on my face.
What do you wish you had known before you started in your profession?
I wish I had known how much potatoes change their conditions during storage. This can have a significant impact on the quality and processing and understanding this has been key to improving our operations.
What would you tell another woman interested in working in the potato industry/primary industries?
It is hard, it is challenging, and it is fun! There are plenty of opportunities for growth and development, but it takes hard work, resilience, and a willingness to embrace new challenges.
I encourage anyone interested to “Dive In”. It is a place where you can make an impact, build your career, and enjoy the rewards of hard work.
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. #AccelerateAction
Find out more at www.internationalwomensday.com