Born in Wellington in 1956, the middle child of six. His dad was a milkman while his mum stayed at home looking after the children.  In 1966 the family shifted to Foxton, where he attended Saint Mary’s Convent School  and then Manawatu College where he became part of their first ever soccer team.

His parents entered the poultry business by starting their own farm, supplying eggs from Paekakariki to Himatangi. The first 10 years, the business remained relatively small. Only Ron, his father, and one employee.

They entered the poultry processing business in the early 90’s, which has steadily grown since. Employing more than 150 staff required a change in management structure and a board was formed. A major cultural change within the business lead to a happier and more productive work environment and supported further growth to currently 220 employees. Eight of those being volunteer firefighters.

Loving the excitement of being in business and governance, Ron is not only director and board member of Turk’s but in a variety of other organizations as well.

Turks poultry has now been in business 52 years. Through his years of experience, Ron has learned it is all about the people, this has led him to make smarter employment choices.

His keen interest in business and governance makes Ron a vital contributor to the Horowhenua Economic Development Board. They support many businesses to grow in the Horowhenua, to be sustainable, grow and provide greater employment opportunities.

A keen sportsman, Ron encourages Turk’s to support local. Turk’s supports the Foxton Rugby Club and also supports a vast variety of community initiatives including the Taste Trail, Manawatu Boating Club and Rescue Helicopter. Ron has been a member of the Foxton Squash Club since the beginning. He is on the executive of PIANZ (Poultry Industry Association New Zealand) and was a member of the Egg Federation.

He married his wife Stephanie 37 years ago and has three children, one of which is looking to join him in the family business in the near future.

He is honored to be following in his dad’s footsteps as a recipient of the Hall of Fame Laureates and hopes his son will also join him there one day.