Ben Dunbar is a rugby mad ex-Cantabrian with a passion for farming.
As Gallagher’s new Territory Manager for Southland Ben combines his love of a good joke with a deep understanding of farmers and a mission to make their lives easier.
He is based in Gore with his wife Ella and son Angus. When he’s not at work or playing dad, you can find him on the rugby field.
Ben coaches the Albion Senior Women’s Rugby team and gives his time as a rugby ambassador running ‘introduction to rugby’ workshops in 12 local primary schools across Southland. Coaching and working as an ambassador is Ben’s way of giving back to the sport he loves.
Ben’s Scottish heritage means he has also been known to pick up the bagpipes at celebrations after learning as an 11-year-old. But he admits it’s been a while since he’s played.
Ben joined Gallagher after working as store manager at Great Southern in Gore. He knows a thing or two about farming; his father is a stock agent in Canterbury and his brother a fencing contractor.
In his previous role, Ben was focused on everything from farm fencing and timber solutions to farm buildings and concrete products. It’s set him up for success in his role with Gallagher.
“I was fortunate to have built relationships with many Southland farmers in my previous role. As a Territory Manager for Gallagher, I’m enjoying the opportunity to really build on that. I think my real strength is understanding where farmers are coming from, looking at the problem they’re trying to solve and understanding what solutions could help."