Meet the Team
The Compass team brings together generations of farming experience and a deep understanding of all aspects of the industry.
Nigel Pannett
Managing Director
Bringing 25 years of experience in the financial and agricultural industries, Nigel leads Compass Agri Australia as the Owner & Managing Director. His vision and early adoption of identifying and developing assets in undervalued areas with high security water has been the driving force of Compass’ success.
In 10 years, Nigel has built an investment portfolio of 7 properties and A$100m FUM. His commitment to identifying talent and building relationships is the foundation of continued growth of investments.
Nigel holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Diploma of Farm Management and is an active member of AICD.
Heidi McKechnie
Executive Support & Business Manager
Heidi brings with her 15+ years’ experience in hospitality and guest services in various roles across the ski industry in Colorado, USA and the hotel industry in Melbourne, Australia. She has extensive experience in employee relations and administrative support with a strong focus on service and professionalism. Heidi holds a Bachelors’ Degree in Psychology and Kinesiology from the University of Colorado, USA, and a Diploma of Human Resource Management. Heidi provides EA support to our Managing Director and business management to the Compass team.
Outside the office, Heidi spends her time supporting her kid’s activities and clubs. She is a passionate skier and enjoys all kinds of exercise.– from Pilates to kayaking and mountain biking.
Ryan Ashby
Operations Manager
With more than 27 years working in the dairy industries in New Zealand and Australia, Ryan is responsible for overseeing all Compass’ managed farms in Tasmania as well as growth and management of the grazing offering across the state. He brings with him over 27 years of dairy industry experience gained both in New Zealand and Australia. Ryan’s strong industry experience and knowledge is a great asset to the Compass team
Ryan’s interests outside of work continue to be outdoor based, with a love of trekking, hunting and camping with this family and friends.
Jessica Philp
Financial Controller
Jess has more than 15 years of agribusiness finance experience and joined Compass in 2024. She most recently held a high-level finance officer position with Excel Farms, overseeing 8 agricultural aggregations spanning approximately 200,000 acres. Prior to this, Jess was a Manager of Agribusiness at Mutual Trust where she grew to manage a portfolio of 20 clients over her 13-year tenure with the company
Jess holds a Bachelor of Accounting, Economics & Finance, and a Certificate of Agribusiness from Marcus Oldham
Abbie Crow
HR & Relationship Manager
Abbie has a rich history and extensive experience in HR Management in industries ranging from Fisheries to Employment & Disability Services. Joining our team in 2022, Abbie’s dedication to working hands on with our farm teams and helping the team members reach their full potential is the daily display of our commitment to our people and communities. In her spare time, Abbie coaches a local women’s rowing club in Hobart, and she enjoys watching sport with family and friends.
Sean Donaldson
Senior Accountant
Joining the team in 2024, Sean brings with him a strong blend of financial, accounting and agricultural experience gained through various roles at Reid Stockfeeds, Rightway Ltd, KPMG (NZ), and a family-owned farming business in New Zealand.
Sean provides financial management across all Compass assets and holds a Bachelor of Accounting.