Meet the Team
Board Members
Ray Sharp
Director / Owner
Following on from my Bachelor of Commerce Degree from Auckland University, I embarked on a successful accounting career in Opotiki.
Lis Sharp
Director / Owner
After working for two decades in my husband's Accounting firm, I transitioned to a role as a Director overseeing 14 companies full-time.
Elly Sharp
Board Member
I hold a First Class Honors Master of Arts, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Administration, and I'm a member of the NZ Institute of Directors.
Ross Townsend
Board Member
I am an Independent Director of Tirofruit, Sunny Downs Farm Ltd and Riverside Ltd and also sit on a range of other boards.
Tony Hawken
Board Member
From 2020, I have served as an Independent Director at Tirofruit Board, post my 30-year tenure as EastPack Ltd's CEO.
Paul Walker-Sharp
Board Member
I graduated from Waikato University with a Bachelor of Management in 2013 and have been immersed in the kiwifruit industry since my childhood.
Maria Sharp
Board Member
I studied Tourism and Hospitality Management through the Waikato University Business School
which I graduated from in 2015.
Team Members
Francis Pauwels
Chief Executive Officer
Recently appointed CEO, Francis excels in business development, providing stellar support and leadership to the board and his team.
Paul Walker-Sharp
Commercial Manager
Paul, our Commercial Manager, is the go-to for projects, development, and commerce. With a keen understanding of business needs, he drives business growth.
Maria Sharp
HR Manager
I studied Tourism and Hospitality Management through the Waikato University Business School
which I graduated from in 2015.
Lisa Carmichael
Finance Manager
Lisa, who joined Tirofruit in 2022, is a seasoned financial manager, bringing a wealth of financial expertise and adept people management skills.
Zoe Bennett
Accounts & Payroll Administrator
Zoe joined Tirofruit in 2020. She brings a diverse range of knowledge in administration, finance and has a vast knowledge of all things kiwifruit.
Ruan Nunes
Operations Manager
Ruan oversees Opotiki Orchards and Tirofruit's operations, driving business growth with extensive expertise in kiwifruit development.
David Stephenson
Orchard Manager
David oversees Te Kaha and Omaio orchards, leveraging extensive kiwifruit expertise from development to harvest and beyond.
David Cerny
Junior Orchard Manager
David is a very passionate and enthusiastic team member. He has a great work ethic and if it was possible, he would like to work 8 days a week.
Darina Jurakova
Special Projects & New Cultivars Lead
Don't be fooled by Darina's initial quiet demeanor. Her assertiveness and confidence reflect her clear goals and outspoken nature.
Tirofruit is fortunate to boast an exceptional team of dedicated and diligent professionals whose passion and expertise have been instrumental in the success of Tirofruit's endeavors, fostering a culture of excellence and achievement within the organization.
Talk to us now!
Please use the Contact Us button below and one of our team will come back to see how we can assist.