NZME welcomes Rowena Duncum into new rural commercial role

New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME) has announced the appointment of Rowena Duncum in the newly established role of Commercial Lead - Rural.

In this role, Duncum will enable customers to engage with NZME's large rural audiences across audio, print and digital in a way that resonates with this audience. Her unique ability to develop content for rural New Zealand will provide customers with alignment opportunities. In addition, her holistic understanding of the country's primary industries means she is the ideal person to spearhead proactive initiatives alongside NZME's sales team.  

With a diverse background in journalism, agriculture, and media spanning 17 years, Duncum is well-equipped to make a substantial impact in the role.

Duncum started her career as a provincial journalist at Newstalk ZB Whanganui in 2007, she later spent six years farming across Ireland, Wales and Taranaki, receiving the 2013 Taranaki Farm Manager of the Year award.

In 2014 she moved to Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC) as a farm solutions manager, earning the title of 2015 Rookie Salesperson of the Year. Duncum re-joined NZME in 2016 as the rural business development manager before becoming the executive producer for The Country in January 2018.

Michael Boggs, NZME CEO, says Duncum's unique background and expertise will be invaluable as NZME continues to serve and grow its rural audience.

"Rowena's appointment as Commercial Lead – Rural underscores our commitment to providing essential information and services to rural communities. NZME has a significant rural audience, and we are dedicated to both servicing and expanding this vital group.”

Duncum, in turn, reinforces Boggs' sentiment.

"I'm honoured to have the opportunity to contribute to NZME’s rural development. My background has given me an appreciation for the challenges and opportunities that exist in rural New Zealand. I look forward to working closely with the rural community and using my experience to ensure that NZME remains a trusted and valuable resource for all our rural stakeholders."

Rowena Duncum will assume her new role early next year.

ENDS