Hosted by Anderson Lloyd in Christchurch, the 2024 Awards evening on November 13 reminded us that cooperatives and mutuals, founded on values and principles that uphold democracy, openness, and concern for others, are uniquely positioned to contribute to building the prosperity of our communities, society, and the planet, especially during challenging times.
Co-operative/Mutual of the Year 2024
FMG
Congratulations to FMG on winning the Cooperative/Mutual of the Year Award!
With over 119 years of service, FMG has proven its unwavering dedication to New Zealand’s rural communities, especially during crises like Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland floods, where they processed nearly 12,000 claims, returning over $290 million to affected areas.
As New Zealand’s first B Corp-certified general insurer, FMG leads in sustainability and governance, amending its constitution to prioritise positive environmental and social impact.
Through initiatives like Programme Shepherd, Farmstrong partnerships, and community support events, FMG goes beyond insurance to strengthen and uplift rural lives, embodying the cooperative spirit.
Leader of the Year 2024
Mark McLean
CEO SBS Bank
Congratulations to Mark McLean on winning the Leader of the Year Award!
As Group CEO of SBS Bank, Mark has revitalised the bank’s mission, focusing on its heritage as a member-owned mutual dedicated to helping New Zealanders achieve homeownership.
Through transformative initiatives, he has elevated SBS as a top choice for first-home buyers, increased brand awareness, and welcomed 6,650 new members. Mark’s commitment to sustainability led to SBS becoming New Zealand’s only major fossil-free bank.
His dedication extends beyond banking, supporting community programmes and fostering a workplace culture of care and empowerment. This award celebrates Mark’s passion, integrity, and remarkable impact on SBS Bank and its members.
Emerging Leader of the Year 2024
Ashleigh Buchanan
Operations Manager People Capabilities, Southern Cross Health Society
Congratulations to Ashleigh Buchanan on winning the Emerging Leader of the Year award!
Ashleigh’s journey at Southern Cross Health Society is a testament to her dedication, from her early days as a contact centre consultant to her impactful role as Operations Manager. Known for her caring and accountable leadership style, she fosters an engaged, purpose-driven team.
Beyond her role, Ashleigh champions inclusivity as co-chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, launching initiatives to celebrate cultural identity, including bilingual job postings in te reo Māori. Her commitment to Te Ao Māori and her openness about her whakapapa inspire her colleagues, enriching Southern Cross’s culture and creating a more inclusive environment.
This award celebrates Ashleigh’s exceptional leadership and her unwavering commitment to positive change.
Lifetime Achievement Award 2024
John Tavendale
John Tavendale has spent more than five decades shaping the landscape of agribusiness in New Zealand, making an indelible impact across multiple agricultural sectors and energy distribution. His contributions to the NZ Blackcurrant Co-operative, which he has chaired since 2011 and supported as a Director since 2004, stand as a testament to his dedication, expertise, and vision.
As a director of EA Networks, John championed initiatives that diversified offerings to benefit Mid Canterbury directly, and he played a key role in bringing ultra-fast fibre to the region years ahead of the national UFB rollout.
His service to agribusiness was formally recognised in 2013 when he was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, and again in 2019 with an honorary Doctor of Commerce from Lincoln University. Congratulations, John, on this well-deserved recognition of a lifetime spent strengthening New Zealand agribusiness and the cooperative model.
Enduring Service Awards 2024
The Awards Evening also provided us with an opportunity to celebrate the longevity and resilience of the co-operative and mutual models.
Full members who reached major milestones were awarded an Enduring Service Award in this non-judged award category. Reaching these milestones is a testament to the longevity and sustainability of the co-operative model.
Congratulations to the members recognised for this achievement at the 2024 Awards.
