TracMap appoints new CEO

TracMap New Zealand has appointed David Glen as chief executive.

TracMap is a world leader in supplying precision guidance systems to the primary food production industries.  The cloud based system allows accurate task management and placement reporting for products, people and vehicles in-field, providing greater visibility and increasing productivity gains.  

The New Zealand-based company has grown on average 41 per cent year-on-year since its inception in 2006.   

Mr Glen takes over the reins from company founder and managing director Colin Brown. Mr Brown initiated the appointment, and will continue to be involved in the company’s strategic direction and market development, focused particularly on expansion into the United States, while also remaining on the board. 

“After eight years at the helm and year-upon-year business growth, particularly in international markets, it is timely to pass the baton on to a new ‘champion’ for TracMap. David brings exactly the skill set we need at this point of the company’s growth.

“Overseas demand for TracMap is just increasing, especially in the horticulture and viticulture industries, particularly in the United States and Australia. David’s experience in technology globalisation will allow us to continue to grow these markets, as well as streamline our processes, so we can confidently meet this demand.”

Mr Glen has successfully led two high-profile New Zealand brands into the international marketplace. He most recently headed the team at Sealegs, the world’s only manufacturer of amphibious craft, and was previously chief executive at Southern Spars, a leading manufacturer of carbon fibre masts, booms and rigging for super yachts and high-end race yachts. 

Mr Glen says both Sealegs and Southern Spars are New Zealand companies that successfully went global by capitalising on their technological capabilities. “It was that focus on their respective strengths that set them apart from competitors.

“The challenges of working from a New Zealand base and developing technology for use both here and overseas – while also managing company growth along the way – are familiar to me. It’s this synergy between my previous experience and where TracMap is going that drew me to this opportunity in Dunedin.  

“In the short term, the focus will be on growing revenues from the existing technology through growth in Australia and California as well as continuing to grow and support the New Zealand agricultural sector. The longer-term strategy involves new technologies and other markets – both geographic and sector – and needs to be developed.

“Growth in offshore markets is not without its challenges, so it’s important that we get the strategy right and execute it fast and accurately.”

TracMap independent director Alan McConnon says the board is excited to welcome such an experienced executive to the company. “David specialises in leading mid-sized, technology-based companies to reach their potential. With TracMap poised to expand its presence into new markets and applications, his appointment is timely.”

Mr Glen started at TracMap on 4 May and will be based in Dunedin.