Charley’s is a private company with 165 shareholders, a MD and a board. We are located at Mission Beach, Far North Queensland in an area that grows great cocoa. Charley’s property comprises cocoa plantations a factory, and many hectares of lowland tropical rainforest.
The Paradise that is Charley’s lowland tropical rain forest
Charley’s governance
On a day-to-day basis founder and MD Chris Jahnke manages Charley’s operations. Governance is undertaken by a board of four, including Chris. Some things that the board considers are ongoing while others emerge. Governance at Charley’s is an evolving scene.
2024’s big issues:
- Cyclone Jasper and the consequent trading downturn’s impact on cash flow
- The price of our PNG cocoa increased in line with global price pressures
- Wet weather has held back Mt Edna harvests and Block 4 trees
This puts a load on the CEO and staff as they manage the operational challenges. At board meetings we consider whether we have the right mitigation strategies in place and whether we need to update our strategy.
The Board is responsible for overseeing the business and approving the values and strategy. Both values and strategy evolve. You can see our values, with our focus on the environment at https://www.charleys.com.au/
Australia grows high quality cocoa. Our strategy is multi-faceted. We grow cocoa, manufacture high quality chocolate, offer an inspiring tourism experience and sell our chocolate online and via retail outlets.
The board meets in person four times per year at Mission Beach; and has regular Zoom calls. CVs of board members can be found here.
Good governance involves engagement with our shareholders. The 2024 AGM is at 10.30am on Friday 23rd October at Charley’s Mission Beach. Learn about our year, meet the directors, and enjoy refreshments following the meeting. Visitors are welcome, at Charley's and the paradise that is Mission Beach.
Industry involvement
Charley’s is an active member of CACAO, the industry body aimed at advancing and supporting the interests of the Australian-Pacific Origin Cocoa and Chocolate industry. The business case for growing cocoa in FNQ is robust.
Next month: The case to become a cocoa farmer.
Ref: See my previous governance article at https://www.charleys.com.au/blog/governance-at-charleys/