Leah Davey
Auckland,New Zealand
Summary
Strategic and purpose-driven business leader with over 20 years of experience driving commercial growth, operational transformation, and market expansion in the food, nutrition, and health sectors. Recognized for leading through change, inspiring teams, and delivering high-impact outcomes across global markets. Skilled at connecting strategy with execution, building strong stakeholder relationships, and unlocking value through innovation and agility. Currently seeking either a senior executive role where I can lead strategy, transformation, and commercial growth—locally or globally or governance roles in food & nutrition where I can make an impact.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Consultant
SeaDragon & Florenz
Auckland
10.2022 - Current
- Served as strategic advisor for investment, branded consumer goods, and ingredient ventures.
- Negotiated contracts exceeding $5 million to support asset investment.
- Acquired and commissioned freeze dryer assets valued at NZD 3 million within three months.
- Developed export strategies for Asia and the UAE
- Secured a $22 million toll refining contract across a 3-year term.
- Signed memorandum of understanding with global omega-3 partner
- Reshored blackcurrant extraction to New Zealand.
- Acted as Interim CEO for supplement brand; transitioned manufacturing operations to USA.
Chief Executive
Maui Milk / Southern Cross Dairy Sheep
Hamilton
03.2020 - 10.2022
- Transformed vision for NZ’s largest sheep milk business, securing vital capital, and expanding supply.
- Cultivated strategic partnerships with Danone and Yashili
- Rebranded the company and established a high-performing team to drive operational success.
- Secured seasonal funding to support growth initiatives and stabilize cash flow.
General Manager – Human Nutrition & Health (Oceania)
DSM
, Auckland
11.2016 - 03.2020
- Directed strategic realignment and brand repositioning for DSM’s Oceania business.
- Achieved APAC’s highest year-on-year growth of 22% in 2017.
- Exited unprofitable operations and restructured team to support future growth.
- Served on CMA Board and co-founded Friends of Complementary Medicines.
Business Manager
IXOM Chemicals
Auckland
10.2011 - 09.2016
- Oversaw operations, supply chain, sales, and innovation for NZ’s largest business unit with 220 staff.
- Secured $300M contract renewal, generating $14M EBIT in across a 6 year term.
- Achieved FSSC22000 certification as industry first for NZ chemicals.
- Restructured operations to drive growth through digital transformation.
- Established a plan to monetize cleaning IP in export markets
Regional Business Manager (APAC)
Bronson & Jacobs / Orica
06.2002 - 10.2011
- Achieved 20% year-over-year volume growth across APAC markets, including infant nutrition and stevia.
- Led regional forums to unify fragmented teams across Asia for enhanced collaboration.
- Delivered 30% growth in New Zealand Food segment during tenure in commercial leadership.
- Progressed through four senior roles, ultimately leading APAC Food & Nutrition across seven countries.
Technical Advisor
NZ Food Safety Authority (MAF)
Wellington
01.2000 - 06.2002
- Spearheaded regulatory projects in dairy sector and implemented e-certification system.
- Enhanced regulatory processes through active participation in industry forums.
- Cultivated strong relationships across industry and government sectors.
Education
Stanford Executive Programme -
Graduate School of Business
01.2018
Governance & Finance Essentials -
Institute of Directors NZ
01.2015
BTech (Hons) - Food Technology
Massey University
01.2000
Project Management - Sales, and Performance Management
Skills
- Strategic planning and execution
- Visionary leadership & global thinking
- Market expansion and export strategy
- Sales & Marketing and asset commercialization
- Innovation and product development
- Team leadership and culture
- Stakeholder engagement
Affiliations
- Member – NZ Institute of Directors
- Board member – Complementary Medicines Australia (CMA)
- Mentor – University of Auckland Women in Business
- Judge – Spark Innovation Challenge
- Chair – Auckland NZIFST (2004–06)
- Judicial Justice of the Peace – Auckland (ongoing court service)
- Volunteer Skipper – 36th America’s Cup Marshal Fleet
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Consultant
SeaDragon & Florenz
10.2022 - Current
Chief Executive
Maui Milk / Southern Cross Dairy Sheep
03.2020 - 10.2022
General Manager – Human Nutrition & Health (Oceania)
DSM
11.2016 - 03.2020
Business Manager
IXOM Chemicals
10.2011 - 09.2016
Regional Business Manager (APAC)
Bronson & Jacobs / Orica
06.2002 - 10.2011
Technical Advisor
NZ Food Safety Authority (MAF)
01.2000 - 06.2002
Stanford Executive Programme -
Graduate School of Business
Governance & Finance Essentials -
Institute of Directors NZ
BTech (Hons) - Food Technology
Massey University
Project Management - Sales, and Performance Management
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