News

Waikato Farmer, and Owl Farm Demonstration Manager, Jo Sheridan, has been announced as the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.

The award was announced at tonight’s gala dinner at the Dairy Women’s Network 2025 Conference “Success through Inspiration” in Hamilton (1 May 2025).   

The thirteenth Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award celebrates women who demonstrate leadership and a commitment to the dairy industry.  Jo was recognised for her outstanding passion and advocacy for the dairy sector.

DWN Trustee and Lead Judge Jenna Smith says Jo brings unstoppable energy, big-picture thinking, and a fierce commitment to making things better — for people, for animals, and for the future of farming.

“She doesn’t just talk about change; she rolls up her sleeves and makes it happen.  Jo is tackling complex industry challenges while passionately championing and empowering young people and innovation.

“For those that know her – and a lot of people do – they know that she is a humble and generous leader, showcasing courage, clarity, and heart”, says Smith.

Jo, who is based in Pirongia, is a passionate advocate for inspiring young people into the dairy sector. She oversees a 140-hectare dairy farm (Owl Farm), a commercial venture at St Peter’s School where young people can walk straight onto the farm and see firsthand the joy of farming. The farm also opens regularly for visitor days, bringing dairy farming to the whole community.

Growing up on a dairy farm in South Taranaki, she developed a deep appreciation for agriculture, later earning a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Soil Science from Massey University.

With over 24 years of experience, Jo has worked in various roles at DairyNZ, served as an independent industry consultant, and before becoming the Demonstration Manager at Owl Farm.

Beyond farming, Jo is active in governance, serving on school boards and industry committees. Her leadership, innovation, and mentorship make her a transformative force in New Zealand’s dairy sector.

Anne Douglas, Fonterra’s Group Director for Farm Source who was part of the judging panel this year, says the calibre and depth of talent across all the nominations and finalists shows the strength of women right across the industry.

“We’re thrilled to see Jo recognised as the winner of the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award,” says Douglas.

“Jo is a passionate and visionary leader who has proven to have a significant positive impact on stakeholders, partners, communities and farmers. It was clear through the process that she adopts a holistic approach, with a clear focus on sustainability and desire to empower others – especially young people. Jo’s authenticity and strategic leadership extends beyond the dairy industry into broader communities, and this recognition feels like just the beginning of even more incredible achievements for her.

“Fonterra is proud to sponsor this award, and we will continue to work closely with the Dairy Women’s Network to help connect and celebrate women in dairy,” adds Douglas.

Jo will receive a scholarship to be part of the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme. The scholarship covers the programme fee, travel and accommodation, mentoring and access to DWN and Fonterra platforms to share research.

Smith adds “we also want to acknowledge the other two incredible finalists who are doing amazing things in our sector”.

Frances Beeston, a Canterbury farmer, is a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing in rural communities, with a strong vision to normalise support systems like EAP across the dairy sector. As a grounded, empathetic and collaborative leader, she brings people together to create safe, connected spaces where everyone can thrive.  With proven leadership through Rural Support and Mycoplasma Bovis response, she is committed to making a real, lasting impact.

Lara Sutton, Waikato farmer, lawyer and the Strategy and Commercial Partnerships Manager at DairyNZ is a humble, values-led leader who creates impact through collaboration, connection, and quiet influence. With a deep understanding of the dairy industry and a passion for mentoring others, she brings people together to focus on shared purpose and long-term change. Her leadership style is characterised by transformational thinking, empathy, and a commitment to fostering meaningful connections across the dairy sector.

-ENDS-

Photo: Supplied by DWN; Jo Sheridan

For more information:
Sarah van Munster
Partner Relationship Manager
Phone: 07 974 4852
media@dwn.org.nz