Fraser Haywood brings a wealth of experience in business management, program delivery, and project management to the Waikato Milking Systems brand.

Fraser began his journey in the agricultural industry at Pāmu - Landcorp Farming in 2013. Initially employed as a Business Analyst - Development Supervisor, he gradually progressed through various roles within Pāmu. By 2016, he had transitioned to Land Development Manager and then to Business Manager for Land and New Business Developments. In 2020, Fraser assumed the position of Project Manager before his final role in 2023, where he concluded his tenure in a national role as the Capital Projects Manager, spanning an impressive 11 years at the company.

Fraser's roles within Pāmu were invaluable to the company's progress over the 11 years he spent with them. He oversaw the successful delivery of various strategic initiatives from concept inception through feasibility modelling and business case assessment before final implementation. He was also tasked with leading the planning and execution of several new business strategies and developments. One of the most notable developments was the conversion of 12,500 hectares of pine forestry. The forestry was transformed into a mixture of pastoral-based agricultural operations and other agribusiness-based farming systems on an area of land known as Wairakei Estate, lying between Taupo and Rotorua.

When asked about the transition from his previous company, Fraser mentioned he was 'in awe of the specialist knowledge and technical expertise throughout all areas of Waikato Milking Systems business structure —from corporate to manufacturing and production.' He also spoke of 'the development of a new perspective' at Waikato Milking Systems, which was beyond 'that of the customer, with a much greater appreciation of the processes required from initial product development to market deployment and the subsequent follow-up.'

Having a strong business understanding, Fraser said he chose to work at Waikato Milking Systems because he felt it was 'an organisation at the forefront of innovation,' also mentioning that the company had an 'agile mindset while being leaders within the dairy industry.'

Fraser expressed excitement for working at Waikato Milking Systems as a Commercial Product Manager, stating that he looks forward to the 'successful delivery of ErgoPOD™ with commercialisation across both domestic and international markets.' Furthermore, he stated he was eager to 'provide support with the development and execution of the right strategy,' while also assisting with 'the greater delivery of the company's strategic vision, in recognition of those who have dedicated significant time to new product development.' He outlined his approach to his new role very specifically, saying he wanted 'formulation of a clear and defined roadmap, which balances the needs of the customer while also ensuring Waikato Milking Systems remains a leader within the industry.'