Helping farmers thrive with science and practical advice

Simon Butler, ruminant nutrition extension specialist at SealesWinslow, is converting science into practical advice to help New Zealand dairy farmers feed more efficient herds.

Simon Butler.

Butler holds a Bachelor of Science from Massey University and developed a passion for the dairy industry while working on Massey University’s dairy research farm while studying.

He worked on the research farm for three years before joining state-owned enterprise Pamu’s dairying operation for another two.

“I got really practical hands-on dairy farming experience and what got me was that we can approach dairy farming from a very scientific standpoint, but it needs to be placed in context and given as practical advice.

“I wanted to help other farmers demystify the science to better their businesses.”

Butler joined SealesWinslow in March 2022, starting out in the sales team and stepped into his new role in October 2024.

“SealesWinslow has really helped me with my career progression,” he says.

“I was a member of the sales team, and because they knew I had this scientific background I spent a lot of time with my fellow team members sharing my scientific knowledge on ruminant nutrition and dairy farm systems.”

When the ruminant nutrition role became available, Butler was an obvious candidate.

“I really appreciate that SealesWinslow has supported me to take my career in the direction I have and follow what I am passionate about, which is using science to help NZ dairy farmers.”

Butler wears multiple hats in his new role, combining training, science, and clear communication to bridge the gap between the latest nutrition research and SealesWinslow’s farmer customers.

Based in Rangitikei, his work still directly supports farmers and the SealesWinslow sales team by translating complex nutritional science into practical, relatable advice.

“My role is focused on conveying information from the latest research and making sure it’s relatable and clear, so SealesWinslow can have a real impact on farmers’ businesses.”

Butler is passionate about his work and says it is driven by his love of dairy cows and his fascination with how they grow and produce.

“I love figuring out what’s happening inside a cow, and how nutrition can drive productivity and efficiency in dairy herds. Cows are complex systems. Understanding the rumen and how to maximise its efficiency is the key to it all,” he says.

He also understands farmers’ needs to maintain their social license as more focus is put on sustainability.

“Mitigating the effect agriculture has on climate change is one thing,” he says.

“But by maximising feed conversion efficiency through effective stocking and feeding practices, dairy farming can be more profitable while still meeting the environmental targets set by our markets.

“It’s exciting to be a part of the process.”

Away from work, Butler enjoys hunting, cycling, and gardening at his rural Rangitikei home.

He and his partner are also preparing for the arrival of their first child in February 2025.

Looking ahead, he says the couple hopes to one day own their own dairy farm.

“We’d love to do it ourselves, applying what I’ve learned to be more sustainable and profitable.”