Accountant stands for milk co-operative's board

Westport accountant Frank Dooley is to stand for election to the board of Westland Milk Products.

Mr Dooley's entry puts him head-to-head with current director and West Coast Federated Farmers president Basil Meyer, for one of two general directorships.

The lower Grey Valley ward is also looking interesting, with Dairy Farmers of New Zealand vice-chairwoman Katie Milne standing against Noel Robb, the son of chairman Ian Robb.

Mr Robb senior is stepping down.

If successful, Ms Milne will be the first woman on the board.

Mr Dooley, who is also the chairperson of the West Coast Development Trust, said he was standing after an approach from some farmers.

"I'm a shareholder in up to 12 different corporates."

He is a supporter of the company's decision to go it alone, rather than join dairy giant Fonterra.

But in a profile he states he has "strong concerns" about the lack of transparent key performance indicators and the quality of shareholder communication.

"I believe I have a diverse range of skills to enhance the governance capabilities of your company in a proactive and positive manner. "

Voting papers were sent out today for the elections. The closing date for votes is September 20.

- NZPA