Wendy Costar looks back at her incredible 22-year career with Farmlands, from Retail assistant to Multi-site Branch Manager. 

What did you want to do career-wise when you left school?

When I left school I wanted to work in an office where I could be corporate and look smart. This was short lived when I was employed by work and income and learnt very quickly that the office environment and working for the government at 18 years old wasn’t that glam.

Tell us about your career to date.

I started with Farmlands in 2002 in the new store that opened in Tokoroa as an Admin/Sales Assistant. I wasn't from a farming background so daily I was learning lots of new things.  We were only a team of 3 so there was lots of multitasking required most days. I had lots of opportunities to get out of the branch and into our farming community, attending on farm training days, discussion groups and calf days, gaining knowledge and building relationships. 22 years later I’m still doing the same and enjoying being able to support and help our farmers and growers, being involved in my community and seeing our branch and staff grow every year.

What led you to Farmlands? 

I was working for a milking machine company and the business was sold. I enjoyed working with farmers so when i saw the vacancy for staff for the new Farmland store opening in town I jumped at the chance.

How have you grown in your time with us at Farmlands? 

In 22 years I have progressed from the admin lady to Assistant Manager to Branch Manager and this year to Multi site Branch Manager of Tokoroa and Putaruru.

What have been your key achievements / what are you most proud of at Farmlands? 

Key achievement for me would be management. It’s not an easy space at times but i think i have done pretty well. I have grown as a person, manager and leader. I feel really proud seeing my team or other staff members progressing within the business, helping to see staff grow and achieving their own goals is pretty cool. I know what it's like to gain promotions, it makes you feel really valued and proud to tick off goals.

What would your advice be for someone who's interested in a career in your area at Farmlands? 

If you have a job in mind, just go for it, work hard and the rewards come. I have worked for Farmlands this long because I love what we do at Farmlands. I have a great team in both branches and watching our farmers succeed is so rewarding. What we do every day and being involved in my local community is what keeps work enjoyable.

Interested in what we offer in the Retail space?

Check out our Retail page and Retail Apprenticeship page for more details.

Interested in working with Wendy in our Retail Team?

Connect with us on our careers site or check out our current vacancies.