From farmers, artisans and food scientists to processors and business leaders, women are playing important roles across the South African dairy industry. Among them is Helen McDougall, CEO of Woodlands Dairy, one of the country’s leading dairy processors and the company behind the popular First Choice brand.

For Helen, her role at Woodlands Dairy brings together many of the things she values in life. She says, “I have spent my career in FMCG and manufacturing across various categories, however my journey into dairy has been shaped by a deep appreciation for the role food plays in people’s lives. I’ve always been drawn to industries that combine purpose with complexity, and dairy sits right at that intersection – linking agriculture, nutrition, manufacturing, and retail.”

As CEO, Helen focuses on balancing the immediate operational needs of a large-scale manufacturing business with long-term strategy and growth. “No two days are the same, but my role centres on setting strategic direction, enabling our teams, and ensuring alignment across the business,” she explains. “A large part of my focus is balancing operational excellence with long-term growth – whether that’s driving innovation, developing high performing teams, strengthening customer partnerships, making a meaningful contribution in our communities or advancing our sustainability agenda. It’s about making decisions today that position the business for tomorrow.”

Why is it relevant to celebrate SA’s women in dairy?
Helen has built her leadership career in what has historically been a male-dominated industry. She encourages other women considering careers in agriculture or food manufacturing to back themselves and their abilities.

“Be confident in your perspectives and don’t underestimate the value you bring,” she says. “Seek out opportunities, build networks, and remain resilient. Career progression often comes from consistently showing up and delivering excellence. Agriculture and food manufacturing are evolving industries that need diverse thinking and strong, accountable leadership. This is why women are playing critical roles across dairy farming, science, leadership, and operations,” she says. “Recognising women across the dairy value chain is important because it reflects the reality of the industry today – and the opportunity ahead.”

Why a career in dairy is purpose-driven
Sustainability has become another major focus area for the dairy sector, particularly as food manufacturers navigate increasing pressure on resources and the environment.

“Sustainability is no longer optional – it’s central to long-term business viability,” Helen says. “At a facility level, Woodlands Dairy has invested significantly in renewable energy, with large-scale solar installations reducing our carbon footprint, alongside ongoing focus on energy efficiency, water stewardship, and waste reduction. Beyond operations, we embed sustainability through our Woodlands Dairy Milk Standard which supports responsible farming practices. In addition, our community initiatives focus on education and upliftment. It’s about delivering long-term value – environmentally, socially, and commercially.”

Meeting the challenges of evolving consumer demand
“The dairy industry and food landscape has changed significantly in recent years as consumer expectations change,” says Helen. “We’ve seen a significant shift from commodity-based thinking to value-led innovation. Consumers are looking for more – whether it’s functional nutrition, convenience, or sustainability. This has driven growth in areas like high-protein products, lactose-free options, and more environmentally responsible packaging. At the same time, digitisation and data are reshaping how we understand and serve consumers better.”

At the same time, Helen notes that maintaining food quality and safety remains central to consumer trust. “It starts at the source with strict standards at farm level, and this continues through every stage of processing,” she says. “At Woodlands Dairy, we’ve invested heavily in world-class technology, rigorous quality systems, and continuous, data-driven monitoring and analysis. This ensures that product integrity is non-negotiable.”

Dairy’s role in today’s healthy eating
As conversations around health and wellness continue to grow, Helen points to scientific evidence and global dietary guidelines that dairy remains an important part of balanced nutrition.

“Dairy is one of the most nutrient-dense and accessible sources of essential nutrition,” she says. “There is nothing else like to when it comes to a food source that provides high-quality protein, calcium, and key vitamins that support growth, bone health, and overall wellbeing. As consumers become more health-conscious, dairy continues to evolve to meet those needs, offering both everyday nutrition and targeted functional benefits.”

Bringing it home after a long day of work
Helen says, “Like many others, dairy is a staple in my home – it’s versatile, nutritious, and brings comfort to everyday meals,” she says.

Her favourites include overnight oats made with high-protein milk, hearty lasagna with cheddar cheese sauce, and warm malva pudding topped with First Choice custard.

And after a long workday?

“It’s hard to beat a dairy treat,” she laughs. “I exercise daily, so for me it’s very important to include protein in my recovery and my go-to favourite is our High Protein milk.”