Hamilton dairy biotechnology company Quantec has appointed its first CEO, Raewyn McPhillips, to lead its next phase of growth.

Ms McPhillips’ appointment as CEO, beginning late November, will enable managing director and co-founder Dr Rod Claycomb to focus on R&D growth opportunities to further Quantec’s expansion in its key overseas markets, including China and Latin America.

Established in 2009, Quantec specialises in extracting high-value bioactives from natural ingredients which are developed into proprietary ingredient formulations for use in human and animal health products.

It manufactures a patented dairy ingredient, IDP®, which is used by its customers to make products such as dietary health supplements and skincare products. It also manufactures a range of anti-acne products under the EPIOLOGY® brand which contains IDP and is distributed through New Zealand pharmacies and Mexican dermatologists.

Quantec won the supreme award at the Natural Health Products New Zealand awards in March this year, recognising its success and innovation in the development, manufacture and export of natural products.

Dr Claycomb says he’s delighted McPhillips is joining Quantec.

“Raewyn brings a wealth of leadership experience in the dairy and public health sectors,” he says.

“Alongside her industry and leadership experience, she’s also extremely skilled in operational and supply chain management, which will be a huge asset as we look to move Quantec into its next phase of growth.”

Ms McPhillips joins Quantec from Tatua Dairy Co-operative, where she was international trade manager. Prior to that she held leadership roles in operations and business improvement at Waikato District Health Board and Fonterra. She has a strong science and business background, beginning her career as a laboratory technician before moving to technical and management roles across Fonterra.

Her appointment follows Quantec’s announcement in May this year of a new general manager of China operations, Kirin Tsuei, to oversee Quantec’s sales and distribution in China.

Quantec chair John Birch says the past nine years of operation has seen continued progress, with the past 12 months in particular showing significant growth.

“Since this time last year we have established a Chinese registered operating company and doubled our team’s size,” says Mr Birch.

“As a relatively young company with science at our heart, we’re experiencing significant commercial success here in New Zealand and in several key markets overseas which is a terrific platform to continue growing from.

“I’m looking forward to welcoming Raewyn to lead the charge allowing Rod to focus on the ongoing R&D required to keep Quantec’s positive momentum going.”

Ms McPhillips says she is looking forward to joining Quantec and leading its next phase of development and growth.

“I’m excited to be working with this highly respected and innovative team to help deliver profitable and sustainable growth, and to continue to bring innovative products to customers around the world.”