The latest edition of The Boardroom Table offers a snapshot of shifting fortunes among New Zealand’s top listed company directors, with a particular spotlight on New Zealand King Salmon Investments. In the wake of challenging financial results and operational setbacks, directors from the company have seen their rankings slip, reflecting the broader pressures facing the aquaculture sector. This update delves into the company’s recent performance, director movements, and the wider trends shaping boardroom leadership across the country.
Two directors from New Zealand King Salmon Investments experienced a notable drop in their rankings following the company’s latest financial results. Chair Mark Dewdney commented, “The results are the first under our revised 30 September balance date, which reflect a shortened eight-month reporting period. It has been an extremely busy eight months for the company. Despite facing some challenges with fish performance over the 24/25 summer, we have made significant strides by strategically investing in our future growth.”
Last March, New Zealand King Salmon reported higher than expected sea farm mortality and lower growth rates during the hot summer months. The company subsequently revised its FY26 harvest forecast to between 5,900 and 6,300 metric tonnes, with a projected FY26 pro-forma operating EBITDA range of $15 million to $24 million. The FY25 pro-forma EBITDA for the eight months ended 30 September 2025 was $7.1 million.
As a result of these financial and operational challenges, Mark Dewdney (Chair since June 2023) dropped out of the top 20, moving from 11th to 23rd place. Paul Munro (director since March 2024) also saw his ranking fall, moving from 52nd to 65th place.
After warmer-than-usual ocean temperatures and a stormy New Zealand 25/26 summer, New Zealand King Salmon Investments’ board will be looking forward to the next full 12 months financial report after implementing initiatives to strengthen their core business and improve fish health.
Robert McLeod continues his ascent on The Boardroom Table, bolstered by robust performance from both Port of Tauranga and Sanford. Off the back of positive financial outcomes and favourable analysis sentiment for these companies, Robert has advanced 18 places since October, now holding the 12th position and edging closer to the top 10. Meanwhile, Hamish Rumbold has faced significant challenges steering The Warehouse Group through tough conditions. Despite the demanding environment, decisive actions appear to be taking effect for the New Zealand retail giant. Hamish, who debuted on The Boardroom Table at 45th in November 2025 has since climbed to 37th place, reflecting the impact of his efforts to revitalise the business.
Only one director exited The Boardroom Table last month: Michelle Henderson resigned from Meridian after six years of service and from South Port after four years. She has accepted the position of General Manager at New Zealand Aluminium Smelters (NZAS) in Tiwai. Michelle departs The Boardroom Table ranked 13th, underscoring a significant leadership loss for both Meridian and South Port, but marking a noteworthy gain for the team at Tiwai.
There were no new appointments to The Boardroom Table during January 2026, leaving the total number of directors represented at 78.
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The Boardroom Table is a first-of-its-kind service that sets a new benchmark for good governance in New Zealand's publicly listed boardrooms. With data from over 200 sources, including financial metrics, media perception, and customer and employee sentiment, The Boardroom Table measures the relative impact a director has made to their company during their tenure. The February edition encapsulates data gathered up to 31 January 2025, the full list will be published to theboardroomtable.com on Friday 13 February.
Eligible directors must hold either two or more current public New Zealand company directorships, or at least one current and one recent past directorship within the last 12 months. More information can be found datamine.com/theboardroomtable.
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