Komal Mistry

Director Active Living, Fonterra
Young Executive of the Year winner, 2017

Based in Singapore, Komal leads Fonterra’s global health, nutrition and medical business focused on advanced adult nutrition. Her role spans across the Americas, China, North Asia, APAC and European markets, unlocking growth through developing and commercialising science-backed health and wellness solutions.

Since joining the dairy giant in 2011, Komal has held various roles including General Manager of Fonterra Ventures, where she was responsible for building new global revenue streams. This involved generating future growth opportunities for the business through a diverse range of sourcing levers including external partnerships, strategic equity investments, and building internal ventures.

It was in this role that Komal was awarded the Deloitte Top 200 Young Executive of the Year in 2017, where the judges commended her for ensuring Fonterra remains relevant for generations to come by adding new products, services and ventures to its already broad offering.

How do you think your involvement in the awards has helped your career journey?
Shining a light on New Zealand business excellence and being able to meet and learn from colleagues across different sectors and industries has been incredible. Sharing our career journeys and stories always has a positive impact and learning opportunity for those around us, so playing a small part in that has been rewarding.

What has been a highlight of your career to date?
Waking up every day to work with passionate, diverse and exceptional people all around the world to bring nutritional products to consumers is a privilege. Every day I learn something new – whether it is through speaking with scientists who are experts in their field; customers in Seoul, Shanghai and Germany; or learning from my team and colleagues. The opportunity to learn, grow and evolve is abundant, which to me is a highlight.

What are you excited about in your work over the coming year?
I’m excited about continuing to make a difference to people, the business and society by creating better nutrition. I’m energised by the innovative changes in the food industry as health, data and technology continue to evolve.

What would you say to another young executive considering applying for this award this year?
I work with incredibly talented people across the New Zealand business community, so I’m looking forward to continuing to celebrate their success through these awards. To those applying this year the message is simple: believe in yourself and never settle as the braver we are, the luckier we seem to get.

Considering applying? Find out more about the Young Executive of the Year Award today!