“We are delighted to have someone with Henry's experience in global business and strong record in governance join the board. As head of the country's largest business, his knowledge and skills will add to the talent and mix on the NZX board,” NZX chairman Simon Allen said.
“His networks and proven record in leadership will be a valuable addition to NZX.”
Mr van der Heyden said that along with his own commitment to New Zealand business, he believed his pending appointment to the NZX board of directors reflected the experience he had gained in his role with Fonterra.
“NZX approached me because of my business experience, both in New Zealand and overseas. I look forward to working with NZX and contributing to their ongoing success,” he said.
Mr van der Heyden became Chairman of Fonterra Co-operative Group in
September 2002 and is a founding Director of the co-operative. He has contributed to industry governance for 13 years, as both a Director and Chairman and played a considerable role in the industry rationalisation that led to Fonterra's establishment.
He pioneered the establishment of stronger shareholder representation having a role in co-operative governance, a move which led to the establishment of Fonterra's Shareholders' Council.
Mr van der Heyden has a Bachelor of Engineering (Agr) with Honours from Lincoln University.