06 876 5938
Doug Ducker
Recipient of the 2020 Leader of the Year, sponsored by Napier City Council.
Leader of the Year Citation 2020
The word ‘resilience’ encapsulates the people and businesses in this room.
The Hawke’s Bay region has faced a multitude of challenges held their heads high and bounced backed with courage and determination.
Our 2020 ‘Leader of the Year’ is not only resilient, he could write a book on it.
His inner strength, fortitude and ability to cope regardless of what life has thrown at him, is a legacy that will guide many people in the future.
Working hard was never a choice, it’s in his DNA. Whether it's standing up for himself, his family or his goals, there was no such thing as the word failure. He has a relentless focus in all areas of his life.
His career started straight out of university when he took on a role with a relatively young organisation as a fresh-faced graduate. After three short years, he was promoted into a leadership role with staff reporting to him.
The next 27 years consisted of five additional promotions until he rose to the top position of Managing Director, heading a multimillion-dollar, international organisation, which is one of Hawke’s Bays largest employers.
Our celebrated leader was constantly active within the industry. He devoted his work life to forestry and was Chair of the Wood Council for many years. He has been involved with the Japan-New Zealand Business Council since 2004 and continued to support the Hawke’s Bay Rescue Helicopter service and the Kiwi Creche at Lake Opouahi.
This person has been a champion for the company he worked for with drive, passion and tenacity.
For the past 46 years this highly driven individual has taken Pan Pac from strength to strength and now newly retired with his partner Pam, he can channel his energy into their property in Clive, while being the go-to person for their children and grandchildren, whom we hear are already starting to show the strength and characteristics of their Grandfather.
