Get to know a little bit about the Potatoes New Zealand team.
Name: Paula Lleras
Role: Seed and Research Administrator – Technical Assistant
What does your role entail?
I administrate the seed potato certification database (BELIS) and manage annual data entry, newsletter, meetings. Plus I am a Seed Inspector, where I carry out field and tuber inspections of seed potatoes. I also provide assistance with Potatoes New Zealand Research and Development projects and support the Potatoes New Zealand Technical Manager.
What part of your role do you enjoy the most?
I love working alongside growers, the work environment (outdoor and indoor), and the continuous learning.
Why Potatoes New Zealand and the horticulture industry?
I graduated from university with a degree in Agronomy and also in Agrifood Management. Horticulture had always been of interest and after joining Seed and Field Services in the South Island and working mainly with potato crops, it soon became a great passion.
What people do you enjoy being around?
I like people who have goals, aspirations, positive thoughts, and loyalty. Easy going, good sense of humour who are understanding and are not too judgemental.
Who inspires you?
I’m the kind of person who gets inspired and learns from all kinds of people, places, and situations, so it’s tough to name just one person who has influenced me the most. I’m also someone who loves learning, so I’m a big fan of absorbing knowledge from podcasts, books, articles, and social media.
What’s your happy place?
Being immersed in nature, especially in the mountains, fills me with energy.
If you could invite a famous person to dinner, who would it be?
Robin Sharma
What’s your perfect weekend?
My perfect weekend is going out for tramping with friends and family, enjoying a barbecue (asado) with them and have fun.
What’s something you think everyone should try at least once?
Skydive