Ospri chief executive Sam McIvor said Mr Cleland was a well-known figure in New Zealand’s primary sector as he and his wife had farming and wine industry businesses, including Carrick Winery in Central Otago.
Mr Cleland’s governance experience includes being director and co-founder of FarmRight, an investment management company focusing on the agribusiness sector, and being a board member of FMG Insurance for 16 years and chairman for six years.
"We’re really pleased to have someone with the industry knowledge and respect that Tony has, as our new chair,
"He brings grassroots farmer knowledge and significant governance experience, both critical for Ospri’s success," Mr McIvor said.
Mr Cleland was taking over the role from board member and interim chairman Fenton Wilson, who had stepped down from the board after 10 years’ service, Mr McIvor said.
