René Dedoncker steps down as MD Global Markets Consumer at Fonterra

NEW ZEALAND – Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has announced that René Dedoncker has resigned from his position as Managing Director, Global Markets Consumer, to take up a position outside of Fonterra.

René Dedoncker has been with the Co-op since 2005 and has held several global leadership positions during that time, including leading our Mainland Group business since March 2025.

René has also led Fonterra’s Australian business, including through its merger with Fonterra Brands New Zealand to form Fonterra Oceania, and has held global leadership roles within our Foodservice business.

CEO Miles Hurrell thanked René for his significant contribution to Fonterra, particularly through the process to divest Mainland Group, where René has continued to provide strong leadership and drive performance as we prepared the business for sale. 

Fonterra Australia Suppliers’ Council appoints Stuart Griffin as Chair

Additionally, Westbury farmer Stuart Griffin has been elected Chair of the Fonterra Australia Suppliers’ Council (FASC), reinforcing the Council’s commitment to representing farmers across Victoria and Tasmania and strengthening its partnership with Fonterra. 

Stuart brings deep industry experience and a strong connection to the farming community. His family has farmed in Gippsland for more than a century, and today he runs a 500-cow operation alongside wife Belinda and his parents.

Returning to FASC after a three-year break, having previously served as Councillor and Deputy Director, Stuart steps into the role at a pivotal time as Fonterra’s Australian operations separate from the Co-op. 

“I am very happy to be back as part of the Fonterra Australia Suppliers’ Council after three years,” Stuart said. 

“As we know, there is change on the way, and my role, supported by all Council members, is to ensure we have an informed and represented supplier base throughout the transition and beyond.” 

Stuart emphasised the Council’s collaborative approach to working with Fonterra, “The Suppliers’ Council is ready to work with all levels of management and suppliers to bring about positive outcomes for all involved, while still maintaining a focus on the needs of the current season.” 

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