Pirongia’s Jo Sheridan is having a long, hard think about what to study after winning a Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme scholarship as the Dairy Woman of the Year.
Owl Farm demonstration manager, Jo Sheridan of Pirongia, is the Dairy Woman of the Year.
She was named winner at last week’s Dairy Women’s Network Conference.
“I’m really excited about that,” said Sheridan, the demonstration manager of the 140-hectare Owl Farm at St Peter’s School in Cambridge.
“I don’t know what my topic of study will be. I have not really given it any thought. It all happened so quickly.”
The scholarship covers the programme fee, travel and accommodation, mentoring, and the sharing of research across the agricultural sector.
“It’s definitely very humbling,” Sheridan said of the win. “I am really privileged, when you look across the room.”
Owl Farm event.
Owl Farm, a fully commercial dairy venture at St Peter’s School opens regularly for visitor days and brings dairy farming to the whole community.
Sheridan grew up on a dairy farm in South Taranaki and earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Soil Science from Massey University. Over more than 24 years, she has worked in various roles at DairyNZ and served as an independent industry consultant before becoming the Demonstration Manager at Owl Farm.
Sheridan is also active in governance, serving on school boards and industry committees.
Sheridan, husband Carl and their two sons Sam and Jake have been involved at Pirongia School since 2013. She served on the board from 2019 until she joined Te Awamutu College board three years ago.
Network trustee and lead judge Jenna Smith said Sheridan brought unstoppable energy, big-picture thinking, and a fierce commitment to making things better — for people, animals, and the future of farming.
“She doesn’t just talk about change; she rolls up her sleeves and makes it happen,” Smith said.
“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.”
Fonterra Farm Source group director Anne Douglas was also a judge.
“Jo is a passionate and visionary leader who has proven to have a significant positive impact on stakeholders, partners, communities and farmers,” Douglas said.
Lara Sutton left the Dairy Woman of the Year judges with a clear sense of her ability to connect then lead. Photo: Chris Gardner
“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.”
Piarere dairy farmer and DairyNZ strategy and commercial partnerships manager Lara Sutton was also a finalist.
Judges said her leadership style was characterised by transformational thinking, empathy, and a commitment to fostering meaningful connections across the dairy sector.”
Owl Farm demonstration manager, Jo Sheridan of Pirongia, is the Dairy Woman of the Year.
