Ruth commenced her career in rural real estate in August 2009 before establishing the first Colliers Rural and Agribusiness franchise in New Zealand with Shane O’Brien in September 2014.

Her experience and acumen led to a role operating at a national level, spearheading growth in Colliers’ Rural business between 2018 and 2021.

Now based in the Southern-Lakes district, Ruth is Managing Director of the Otago and Southland Rural business, of which she was one of the co-founders in January 2019.

Growing up on a large-scale, high-country farm in Central Otago set the foundation for Ruth’s involvement in the rural industry throughout her working life. After achieving a first-class honours degree from Otago University, Ruth commenced a career in rural finance that spanned nine years with the National Bank. She then joined the progressive new dairy company, Synlait, as Business Development Manager, focusing on growing their farming assets via key acquisitions around the Canterbury region.

Ruth is also involved in the rural building industry with her husband Nigel, and the experience of the incredible highs and lows that this industry has encountered over the past 13 years has honed her management and problem-solving skills to the highest level.

As a rural real estate professional, Ruth's strategy is based around the cornerstones of people and their farming businesses. Focusing on these rather than solely the physical assets is key to how she achieves positive outcomes regardless of market conditions. Her underlying principles of trust and integrity ensure she continues to form long-lasting, genuine relationships and she applies an open, honest approach to all situations.

Furthermore, Ruth's comprehensive understanding of an often complex and evolving rural market together with her ever-present proactive attitude allow her to provide solutions that go beyond the traditional real estate model.