Maury Leyland

Co-Founder | New Zealand

Professional Overview

Maury Leyland is a seasoned entrepreneur and industry leader with a strong track record of driving innovation and positive impact. As the Co-Founder of Leaft Foods, she leverages her deep expertise in sustainable food systems and her passion for environmental stewardship to develop pioneering plant-based solutions. Alongside her entrepreneurial ventures, Maury actively contributes to the advancement of her community and industry through her leadership roles on various steering committees and boards.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Co-Founder, Leaft Foods (2019 - Present)

• Co-founded Leaft Foods, a New Zealand-based company dedicated to developing innovative plant-based food products that promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.

• Oversees the strategic direction, product development, and operational execution of the company, driving its growth and industry recognition.

• Leverages her extensive industry knowledge and network to forge key partnerships and collaborations that amplify Leaft Foods' impact.

Steering Committee Member, Taiao Ora (2021 - Present)

• Serves on the steering committee of Taiao Ora, a collaborative initiative focused on promoting regenerative land use practices and environmental stewardship.

• Provides strategic guidance and leverages her expertise to support the organization's efforts in driving sustainable change within the agricultural sector.

Chair, The Education Hub (2016 - Present)

• Chairs the board of The Education Hub, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and outcomes in New Zealand.

• Oversees the organization's strategic direction, governance, and program development, ensuring its long-term sustainability and impact.

Career Progression

Steering Committee Member, Te Hono Movement (2014 - 2024)

• Served on the steering committee of the Te Hono Movement, a collaborative platform that brings together industry leaders to drive innovation and sustainable growth in New Zealand's primary sectors.

• Contributed her expertise in sustainable food systems and fostered cross-industry collaboration to advance the movement's initiatives.

Independent Director, Genesis Energy (2016 - 2021)

• Served as an independent director on the board of Genesis Energy, a leading energy company in New Zealand.

• Provided strategic guidance and oversight, contributing to the company's efforts to transition towards a more sustainable energy future.

Academic Background

Maury holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Auckland, where she specialized in Sustainable Business Practices. Her academic achievements, combined with her practical industry experience, have equipped her with a unique blend of business acumen and environmental stewardship.

Areas of Expertise

• Sustainable food systems and plant-based product development

• Regenerative land use and environmental stewardship

• Strategic leadership and organizational governance

• Collaborative industry initiatives and cross-sector partnerships

• Nonprofit management and educational program development

Professional Impact

• Co-founded Leaft Foods, a pioneering plant-based food company that has garnered industry recognition for its innovative and sustainable products.

• Served on the steering committees of influential organizations, such as Taiao Ora and the Te Hono Movement, driving the advancement of sustainable practices in the primary industries.

• Chaired the board of The Education Hub, leading the organization's efforts to enhance educational opportunities and outcomes in New Zealand.

• Contributed her expertise as an independent director on the board of Genesis Energy, supporting the company's transition towards a more sustainable energy future.

Conclusion

Maury Leyland's career is marked by a steadfast commitment to sustainability, entrepreneurship, and community impact. As the Co-Founder of Leaft Foods, she continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the plant-based food industry, while her leadership roles on various committees and boards showcase her dedication to driving positive change across multiple sectors. With her exceptional business acumen, industry expertise, and unwavering passion for environmental stewardship, Maury is poised to make a lasting impact on the future of sustainable business practices in New Zealand and beyond.