Hoodless steps down after almost two years in the role, search for replacement underway
The International Fresh Produce Association Australia and New Zealand (IFPA ANZ) has announced it will embark on a search for a new managing director to take the association into an era of growth, following the resignation of Ben Hoodless.
Hoodless has been in the role for almost two years and will continue with IFPA ANZ to transition the role to the new managing director.
IFPA ANZ chairman Richard Byllaardt said Hoodless had been a long-time supporter of the IFPA ANZ and is passionate about its ability to leverage its network and global reach to have a positive impact on the Australian and New Zealand fresh produce and floral sectors.
“Ben volunteered on the board for four years and was chair before assuming the role of managing director,” Byllaardt said. “During his tenure, IFPA ANZ has experienced significant growth including double-digit growth in attendance of the annual flagship event and Australasia’s premier fresh produce trade show, Hort Connections, which it co-owns with Ausveg.”
In addition to networking and food safety, Byllaardt also said IFPA ANZ had expanded its offerings in the areas of sustainability and had responded to member needs such as the expansion of its 2025 programme curriculum designed to upskill the industry.
“Our industry is facing many challenges, and IFPA and its global footprint are uniquely placed to support the ANZ members and the industry,” Byllaardt said.
The new managing director will work closely with the board and IFPA global leadership team to deliver outcomes and drive advocacy efforts. As the leading industry body representing all of the supply chain in the fresh produce and floral sector, IFPA ANZ plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration, advocating for the industry’s interests, promoting sustainable practices and connecting industry with its global partners.
The new managing director will have oversight of all strategic and operational activities for IFPA across ANZ, along with the formulation of the longer-term strategic plans under the guidance of the ANZ board and in partnership with the IFPA global network; take a leadership role in industry and advocate on behalf of the ANZ industry and its members’ supporting growth and prosperity for all companies in the fresh and floral supply chain.
Hoodless said he remained committed to IFPA ANZ and the industries it represented and was excited for the future of the association under a renewed leadership.
He said he was looking forward to spending more time with his family and his own business, Element Ag, an advisory service which partners with companies looking to establish or increase their commercial footprint in the Australian agricultural market with a focus on technology, innovation and sustainability.
