SAGIT welcomes Dr John Harvey as new trustee

Experienced company director and former head of the Grape and Wine Rural Research and Development Corporation (GWRDC) Dr John Harvey has been appointed for a three-year term as a South Australian Grain Industry Trust (SAGIT) trustee.

Dr Harvey, who will start his term as a trustee later this month, said he was excited about applying his governance and scientific background to the grains industry.

He was chosen from a diverse field of applicants, with Grain Producers SA and SAGIT both agreeing his skillset and significant experience would add enormous value to the trust.

“Having previously worked in wine research and development, I have missed that nexus between science and agriculture and the application of science in a practical way,” Dr Harvey said.

“SAGIT provides a rare opportunity to focus on that and although it’s a different commodity, it is a good fit.

“I’m looking forward to getting back out in the paddock.”

Dr Harvey is a former genetics researcher with a strong understanding of the agricultural research landscape.

Through his role as Deputy Chair of Rural Business Support, and as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, he has a comprehensive appreciation of corporate governance principles.

SAGIT chair Max Young said Dr Harvey would bring a unique perspective to the trust.

“It’s important when you’re working together as a board to have different perspectives and experiences and Dr Harvey’s governance, scientific skills and insight will be invaluable for SAGIT,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to hearing his insights into how we can progress grains research and development in South Australia.”

Grain Producers SA chair Wade Dabinett said in addition to bringing governance and scientific rigour to the trust, Dr Harvey would also bring empathy.

“Dr Harvey has a strong understanding of rural communities and agribusiness, governance and community engagement,” he said

“I believe SAGIT is the jewel in the crown of the South Australian grain industry and to be able to add someone with Dr Harvey’s experience and skills to that board will benefit growers and the industry.”

Dr Harvey is a former Chair of the Adelaide Hills Wine Region, Member of the South Australian Wine Industry Association Executive and spent eight years as a Non-Executive Director of the Australian Wine Research Institute.

Dr Harvey has a Master of Business Administration, as well as a BSc (Hons) and PhD from the University of Adelaide and holds several other Chair and Non-Executive Board positions within the private and profit for purpose sectors.SAGIT