Foodstuffs North Island (FSNI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Hon Steven Joyce CNZM to its Board of Directors, effective 25th August 2025.

Mr Joyce brings decades of experience in business leadership, governance, infrastructure, and public policy. Before entering Parliament in 2008, he built RadioWorks into one of New Zealand’s largest commercial radio networks. 

Since leaving politics in 2018, he has advised leading New Zealand organisations on business strategy, reputation management, and regulatory issues, and currently serves as Chairman of NZME. 

During his ten years in politics, he served in several senior Cabinet roles, including Minister of Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Science and Innovation, and Minister of Transport.  

Dean Waddell, Chair of Foodstuffs North Island, said Mr Joyce’s breadth of experience will be invaluable as the co-operative looks ahead to the opportunities and challenges of a rapidly evolving grocery sector. 

“Steven’s combination of commercial expertise, governance experience, and understanding of New Zealand’s economic and infrastructure challenges will be a tremendous asset to our Board. He knows what it takes to lead through change, and he shares our commitment to helping New Zealanders get more out of life.” 

Waddell said the appointment comes at a pivotal time for the co-operative and the wider industry. 

“The grocery sector is operating in a newly regulated environment, and we’ve committed from the outset to making regulation work well for customers, suppliers, and retailers alike. We have a broad programme of work underway to strengthen competition, improve efficiency, and be able to be lower cost and compete to deliver great outcomes for New Zealanders. 

“Steven’s deep experience in infrastructure, regulation, and large-scale business transformation will be a real asset as we deliver on that programme and position the co-op for the future, embracing new technologies, driving innovation and finding new ways to deliver even more value to New Zealanders in the years ahead.” 

The FSNI Board comprises eight Grocer Directors and, upon Mr Joyce’s appointment, three Independent Directors.