Bart Cheetham

For Bart Cheetham, farming is about progress. As Business Manager, Bart brings a goal-focused approach to everything he does, driven by a deep connection to the land and a genuine passion for seeing improvement in every aspect of the business.  

Applying for the Head Shepherd role at Opouahi Station, a farm previously leased by Pāmu, marked a deliberate career progression for Bart, and his journey from that position to Business Manager demonstrates his commitment to growth and leadership. 

The role gives him the platform to work in an industry that allows him the time on land he values, while he leads people who share his passion for agriculture. 

Three things stand out most for Bart in his role: 

• Progress - Seeing tangible improvement and moving things forward
• The land - A strong personal connection to the country and working in an industry that keeps him engaged with it
• People - Working alongside others who share similar passion about agriculture, land, and the landscape 

Bart's definition of farming excellence goes beyond metrics. When a farm works well and all systems tune together, it creates a tangible energy that shows in the people involved. He loves talking with a farm manager about a positive result and listening to their passion about how they achieved it through all the conflicting challenges each farm faces. Excellence isn't just about the outcome — it's about the journey, the problem-solving, and the shared passion that drives everyone to push through challenges. 

Of Pāmu values, Bart relates most strongly to Genuine. 

This authenticity builds trust and creates honest communication. It showed through during one of Bart's most significant moments: on his most difficult day, his peers stood alongside him. That support — real, tangible, and freely given when it mattered most — reinforced the strength of genuine relationships built on trust and mutual respect. 

What makes Bart feel proud? When his team succeeds in their plan and others recognise that success. He doesn't seek personal accolades — he wants to see the collective effort acknowledged and valued.  

Bart's vision for the future is clear and ambitious: in five years, he sees himself as a leader in the agriculture sector. This goal aligns perfectly with his progress-focused nature and his passion for developing both people and operations. This leadership aspiration isn't just about titles or positions — it's about continuing to drive improvement, support passionate teams, and contribute meaningfully to an industry he connects with deeply.