Our People

Damian joined Ballance in March 2011, having completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Agriculture) at Massey University.

Having grown up on a dairy farm in Reporoa, Damian furthered his practical knowledge of agriculture by working on a variety of farms both before and during his studies. He completed his Intermediate and Advanced Sustainable Nutrient Management certification through Massey University. He has also completed the Nutrient Management Adviser Certification Programme being one of the very first people to do so. Damian is focused on delivering good service and advice to meet the expectations of our key customers. One of his strong attributes is good planning.

Andrew Rutherford is the Regional Sales Manager covering the Eastern region.

He spent his childhood on the family’s 225-hectare sheep and beef farm in the southern Hawke’s Bay. This, when combined with over 20 years working in the agriculture industry, has resulted in Andrew developing a broad knowledge of the sector.

He originally joined Ballance in March 2002 before moving into a Corporate Accounts Specialist role for the Central Plateau in 2008. In this role Andrew built strong relationships and enjoyed having a positive influence on his customers farming operations through providing quality advice. He has utilised these skills and his years of experience to move into a leadership role, where he can support and guide his team through their careers in agriculture.

Russell brings a wealth of knowledge gained through his time on the family farm as well as previous roles he has held, with much of his career spent managing stock and a range of sheep and beef farms. In addition to this he holds a Diploma in Sheep and Beef Production Management and owns a small farm in Ashley Clinton which he calls home. Russell has a passion for providing farmers the tools to assist them to farm sustainably and profitably not only for their generation, but for generations to come.

Anneke joined the East Coast team in September 2024, taking on the core Nutrient Specialist role in Hawkes Bay.

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She brings knowledge gained from her Bachelor of Science, working on sheep and beef farms, as well as previous roles working at ARL, primary ITO and Landcorp.

Anneke loves to help farmers and growers build a better future for themselves and the generations to come by farming profitably and sustainably, using tools to assist in making informed decisions.

When not working, she loves to spend time with her family and friends camping, tramping fishing, horse riding and any other sport.