Inside NZ’s Biggest Business: Miles Hurrell - The Accidental CEO

Since 2018, Miles Hurrell has been the CEO of the Fonterra, New Zealand’s largest company with revenue exceeding $22 billion.

This is his first ever long-form interview podcast and you will get to see a side of Miles that has never been shown publicly before.

There is plenty in her for the rural community and anyone keen to learn more about Fonterra. Including the late-night emails he often gets from pissed off farmers, and the viral “butter-gate” moment on TV1 news last year and what happens when he gets called to Parliament for meetings with MPs.

But this chat is far more personal than anything Miles has done before: We discuss his messy upbringing with a resilient solo mum, raising 3 boys on a benefit and moving schools constantly. And the very special relationship he has with his mum now, why he insisted on looking for the good in everyone, how he balances a hectic job with a 12-year-old son and much more.

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Massive thanks to my long-term podcast sponsors, Generate.

Generate is an award-winning KiwiSaver provider with a track record of delivering strong long-term returns for their clients – you can see their latest returns for yourself on their website.

I became a client when they came on board as the show sponsor and it’s been a game changer for me personally – I’m kicking myself for not doing it years earlier.

You can book a no obligation chat with one of their awesome KiwiSaver advisers at generatekiwisaver.co.nz/dom

The issuer of the scheme is Generate Investment Management Limited. To see their Product disclosure statement see generatekiwisaver.co.nz/pds Past performance does not guarantee future returns.

And just a reminder — I’m a podcast host, not a financial adviser, so this is just general advice. I recommend getting expert advice before making any financial decisions.

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00:00 Introduction to Miles Hurrell 02:55 Navigating Media and Public Perception 05:55 Understanding Fonterra's Cooperative Structure 09:11 The Future of Dairy and Young Farmers 11:56 Leadership Qualities and Personal Growth 14:56 Myles' Upbringing and Family Influence 18:10 Reflections on School and Early Aspirations 20:56 Career Journey and Opportunities 32:21 From Freight to Dairy: A Serendipitous Journey 36:58 Navigating the Dairy Industry: Building Connections 39:46 Living Abroad: Experiences in Germany and Beyond 44:15 Facing Challenges: The Egyptian Revolution 48:01 Becoming Interim CEO: A Journey of Responsibility 55:43 Balancing Family and Career: The Trade-offs of Leadership 01:00:03 Imposter Syndrome: Overcoming Self-Doubt in Leadership 01:02:52 Evolving as a Leader: Embracing Diversity and Resilience 01:05:49 Staying Grounded as a Leader 01:08:09 Cultural Foundations and Long-Term Vision 01:09:32 Navigating Challenges for Future Generations 01:11:50 The Weight of Responsibility 01:15:55 Finding Good in Everyone 01:18:20 The Importance of Second Chances 01:20:37 Balancing Work and Family Life 01:24:36 Evolving Definitions of Success 01:26:31 Navigating Tough Conversations 01:28:42 Reflections on Personal Growth 01:30:05 Facing Fears and Regrets 01:34:22 Supporting Leadership and Team Dynamics 01:35:15 Pride in Accomplishments and Staying Humble