| 37 Progressive Meats MANUFACTURING “Some of our roles are technical, involving market access into multiple countries and collaboration with MPI, customers, and offshore regulatory agencies.” Opportunities abound at Progressive Meats With a workforce of over 400, Progressive Meats processes an impressive 850,000 lambs and 10,000 cattle each year. T T Richard Loader Founded in 1981 by Craig and Penny Hickson, Progressive Meats has been a cornerstone of Hawke’s Bay’s meat processing industry for over four decades. Family-owned and operated, this Hastings-based company processes lamb and beef for several local export partners, drawing livestock from Hawke’s Bay, the East Coast, Poverty Bay, Wairarapa, and Manawatu. With a workforce of over 400, Progressive Meats processes an impressive 850,000 lambs and 10,000 cattle each year. Products are packaged, blast frozen or chilled, and held for export, destined for markets worldwide. Despite its scale, the company’s focus is firmly on people, fostering career development and leadership opportunities for staff at all levels. General Manager Richard Thorp highlights Progressive Meats’ commitment to cultivating talent. “We provide opportunities for individuals regardless of their education background. Whether you have tertiary qualifications or not, if you bring the right attitude and aptitude, we’ll support you to succeed. We’re always eager to help people reach their full potential,” says Richard. The company boasts a long tradition of internal promotion. Many supervisors have risen through the ranks, gaining hands-on experience before moving into leadership roles. Richard adds, “One of our most senior managers started packing meat, progressed through operations, to being a supervisor, and is now a senior manager overseeing export-quality products.” Bringing new talent into the business is critical, according to Richard. Progressive Meats continually seeks to infuse fresh perspectives by recruiting from various industries. “We’re always looking for good people. The meat industry offers great career paths, especially for young men and women seeking a dynamic, rewarding career.” Hawke’s Bay offers a high quality of life, and this is a key attraction for prospective employees. Whether hiring through employment agencies or engaging directly with schools and training institutions, Progressive Meats actively promotes the broad range of opportunities the company offers. From middle management to technical roles, the company provides a wealth of exciting opportunities. “Some of our roles are technical, involving market access into multiple countries and collaboration with MPI, customers, and offshore regulatory agencies,” Proud to support Progressive Meats Ltd YOUR TRUSTED SERVICE PARTNER • Linehaul Bulk Freight • New Zealand Freight Distribution Network • Servicing all North Island Main Centres Daily • Managed Warehousing EMMERSON TRANSPORT LTD 511 Orchard Road, Hastings • Phone (06) 873 0670 www.emmersontransport.co.nz | despatch@emmersontransport.co.nz PROUD SERVICE PROVIDER TO PROGRESSIVE MEATS LTD Richard notes. “We believe in the legacy of this business, and we’re proud to be a Hawke’s Bay company with a strong future.” Progressive Meats is proof that dedication, opportunity, and support can shape successful careers while contributing to the success of a thriving, locally-rooted business
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