Management & Board

Mike FlemingIndependent Board Chair

Mike's experience within the agricultural sector is second to none. He is involved with many farming companies throughout New Zealand in roles of director, executive manager and project manager. He is also associated with several company and advisory boards, mostly as chair. Mike is a well-regarded agribusiness consultant with a speciality in the areas of governance, succession, strategy, management structures and investment analysis.

“The team at Progressive Livestock have a unique formula based on having superior livestock knowledge, strong business relationships and an overwhelming commitment to all stakeholders long-term successes.”

Harry Van de VenDirector

Born and bred on dairy farms Harry knows that confidentiality is highly valued in the industry, and ensuring both parties are happy at the end of the day is vital. A lifetime in the agricultural industry including 50/50 share-milking and 11 years as a highly motivated stock agent in Central Waikato saw him join Progressive Livestock in October 2008 when the North Island company was formed.

“It's exciting getting the best deal for our Clients, and we will work very hard to do that"

Dawn EdwardsFinancial Controller

A chartered accountant and with a long history in farm and dairying accounting, Dawn joined Progressive Livestock in 2011 after a number of years as an auditor for Audit NZ, a management accountant at the District Hospital, and finance manager at Aoraki Polytechnic. But it was farm accounting in South Canterbury where she started her career and worked in for seven years for a South Canterbury Chartered Accountancy company, and it's here in dairying she feels she can make the greatest contribution.

“The people and culture in this industry is unique and it's very rewarding seeing our clients, whether selling or purchasing livestock through us, succeed.”

Andrew RobinsManaging Director

Andrew was brought up on a South Canterbury sheep and beef farm and has been involved with the Livestock Servicing Industry since the early 1990’s.

He joined Progressive Livestock in 2008, has extensive field experience and a wide range of industry knowledge and connections.

Moving into a management role soon after, he is responsible for compliance and the human resource needs of a fast-growing company. He actively works alongside agents in the field and supports the CEO.

“To have a high level of understanding of what is required and delivering beyond expectations ensures everyone's success."

Greg CollinsFounder / General Manager - Timaru, South Canterbury

Growing up on a South Waikato dairy farm set Greg up for a lifetime in the industry. In the 1990's, during the dairy expansion into Southland, he started his career as a stock agent helping many new farmers succeed in the region. Nine years later he founded Progressive Livestock to fill the need for a more tailored service for his growing client base. Based in Timaru, Greg manages the business with a hands-on approach.

“Professionalism in every area of our business ensures we often exceed client expectations.”

Layne MorreseyDirector / Livestock Manager Southern Region - Winton, Southland

Layne may be Taranaki born and bred but it's Southland that captured his heart when he joined Progressive Livestock, moving his young family south in 2004. He helped Greg grow the Southland and Canterbury markets, trucking dairy cattle from the North Island to meet the growing demand. Layne was also key to helping build the North Island arm of the business. He became a stock agent in his teens and has been involved in livestock all his working life. Layne has an innate sense for a deal, travelling over 70,000km each year to do just that.

“The way we do business is very hands on because the buck stops with us and that makes us very focussed on what's happening in the industry. We know dairy inside out!”

Richard HarleyDirector