Meet Tairongo (Tai) Tuhiwai
Maintenance Manager – Morrinsville/Waharoa Sites
Cohort: 2020
BE (Hons) Mechanical
Tell us about one of your roles and a key project you have led or involved with that you're proud about.
In role as Maintenance Manager for Morrinsville/Waharoa sites, one of the key accomplishments was working together collaboratively with a team. It’s also finding different ways and methods we can further improve our reliability and longevity of the site’s assets. I’m proud to lead a passionate team of individuals who aim towards these goals.
How did the Graduate programme set you up for success in your career?
I found in the FGTP programme it developed my understanding for how vast Fonterra is. I found in this programme the biggest influence is the amount of exposure and practical experience out on site with the multiple product streams. This set me up for success going into the manufacturing environment.
In the multiple roles I have been in through, Process Project Manager, Process Team Lead, Environmental Manager and now Maintenance Manager, these roles allow for a wide range of growth and development opportunities. One of my passions I have found in these roles is leading a team of motivated and engaged people. I enjoy building a team that is motivated and has a drive for doing their best.
In each of these roles there is no day like the same. I enjoy having this variety in work as it allows me to learn and further my knowledge and understanding of the business.
"I found in this programme the biggest influence is the amount of exposure and practical experience out on site with the multiple product streams. This set me up for success going into the manufacturing environment. In the multiple roles I have been in, ranging from Process Project Manager, Process Team Lead, Environmental Manager and now Maintenance Manager. I have developed a breadth of knowledge & technical capability as well as take advantage of many growth and development opportunities.”
What surprised you about working at Fonterra?
One of the things I have seen throughout Fonterra is its passion in involving Iwi/Hapu and the wider community. In the as the Environmental Manager, I found a good connection towards the involvement of Iwi and Hapu. There is push towards developing job opportunities and bettering the environment. In one case this is creating/planting native tree nursery alongside Iwi and Hapu.
Where do you see yourself going from here at Fonterra?
Oe of my current ambitions is to become a Site Manager and furthering this to a General Manager. I believe this is achievable and with having the connections and background knowledge from the FGTP it has set me up for success for the journey ahead.