Matt Donn has recently joined New Zealand Sugar as General Manager. We asked him to “Take 5” so we could learn more about him and his plans for NZ Sugar.

New Zealand Sugar General Manager Matt Donn.Name: Matt Donn

Position: General Manager NZ Sugar

How long have you been with our business? Almost three months

What are your early impressions? It’s an amazing business with an incredible history and beautiful site.

What are some key areas you’re keen to focus on? I love helping businesses grow so I am really excited about evolving our strategic plan to set us up for the future and going through the highs and lows of achieving it.

What was your first paid job? Filling shelves in the supermarket as a rep merchandiser.

Who has influenced your career the most? Lots of people. I try and pick up bits from anywhere and everywhere. I don’t think you can ever stop learning or growing.

When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up? A professional footballer. I still think I could make it …

What’s the best advice you’ve been given? It’s not one thing that will turn a business, it’s lots and lots of little things all the time.

What do you like to do outside of work? Hang out with my family. As I am a football fan I also volunteer at my local football club as President, which keeps my weekend full of football stuff during the winter!

What’s your favourite thing to consume with sugar in it? Doughnuts, soft drinks, chocolate, you name it!