CEDA board appointments confirmed
The Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA), on behalf of its joint shareholders Manawatū District Council and Palmerston North City Council, has confirmed the reappointment of one director and the appointment of two new directors to its Board.
CEDA is the region’s economic development agency, working in partnership with Manawatū District Council and Palmerston North City Council to support business growth, investment and regional development.
Katie Brosnahan has been reappointed following the completion of her first term. Her reappointment provides continuity of CEDA’s role in enabling a place to grow and supporting a prosperous, resilient economy.
Two new appointments have been made as Antony Heywood and Colin McFadzean have been appointed as new directors.
Antony Heywood brings extensive leadership experience across the food and fibre sector, along with strong relationships with central government. He served more than six years as Chief Executive of Vegetables New Zealand, leading national advocacy and working closely with ministers, senior officials, and Economic Development Agencies across multiple regions. Antony also brings international experience from Australia and the United States, as well as practical commercial insight through his role as a fourth-generation horticulture business leader.
Colin McFadzean brings more than four decades of experience in export, manufacturing, and product commercialisation, with a strong focus on innovation and international markets. A long-standing Manawatū business owner, Colin offers deep regional knowledge alongside global expertise in logistics, distribution, and agricultural product development.
Colin’s governance experience includes roles as a public company director, a board member of the Manawatū Rugby Union, a former Manawatū District councillor, and most recently as external chair of Manawatū District Council’s Water Services Unit.
The CEDA Board now comprises Bobbie O’Fee (Chair), Margy Maré, David Norman, Katie Brosnahan, Antony Heywood, and Colin McFadzean.
Together, the appointments strengthen the Board’s mix of governance, commercial, and sector expertise to support businesses, partnerships, and economic development across the Manawatū and Palmerston North region.
The appointments took effect 1 January 2026.
L to R: Colin McFadzean and Antony Heywood.