Onions New Zealand (ONZ) has identified via the development of its industry strategic plan completed in January 2014, that successful research and innovation is core to the achievement of industry objectives. These are to expand its position as a world class industry delivering sustainable growth and profitability for New Zealand onion grower and marketer members. Following this, ONZ contracted Dr Jane Adams to develop a research strategy for the onion industry and has now engaged Jane to implement this strategy and provide ongoing leadership. Jane will be responsible for the development and management of research and innovation projects from inception to adoption, targeted at improving the value and profitability of the onion industry in New Zealand.
ONZ Chairman, Michael Ahern says “After less than one year as the recognised peak body for the NZ onion industry, ONZ is moving rapidly to embrace its strategic goals befitting its status as the country’s third largest horticultural fresh export earner. ONZ has recognised that it needs to invest in capability and capacity in the R&I role so has to hasten quality outcomes for marketer and grower members”.
Jane is a Science and Innovation consultant and has been working with primary sector industries to develop and manage research strategies and the commercialisation of research. Jane’s career has spanned research and development, quality systems development and auditing, and tertiary education, as well as senior management and governance roles. She has been involved in the strategic management of research in commercial companies, academic and research institutions and at a national level. Jane established her consultancy company Adams Harman Ltd three years ago and prior to this was an Innovation Leader at ZESPRI International Ltd.
