The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has today (Thursday, May 22) announced that Graham Wilkinson will step down from the role of chief executive officer (CEO) to join Sofina Foods as group agriculture director.
Wilkinson, who joined the board in March 2024, will leave his post towards the end of 2025.
Speaking about his departure, he commented: “I am extremely proud of the team and what we have achieved together on behalf of levy payers. The organisation is energised with a new vision and strategy that is laser focused on delivering value.
“Since joining AHDB we have launched a ground-breaking baselining project which will bring clarity to the role that our industry plays in benefiting the environment.
“We have also seen another very strong year for exports and have ramped up our marketing to promote red meat and dairy to the next generation.
“Our cereals and oilseeds research and development programme is also growing to provide ever-important independent evidence and insight for farmers. I’m proud of what we have achieved in promoting and protecting the reputation of our industry and championing levy payers,” he added.
Yesterday (Wednesday, May 21), the AHDB announced that Emily Norton has been appointed by Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) ministers as the new chair of the board.
Norton who has 25 years of experience in the food and farming sector, will take on the role for three years from June 1, 2025.
She will succeed Nicholas Saphir, who is stepping down after more than five years in the role.
Wilkinson added: “Emily Norton will have my full support over the coming months in her new role as chair of AHDB and I remain fully committed until I leave towards the end of the year.
“For now, it’s business as usual. My leadership team and I will continue to deliver the ambitious plans that we have set out for levy payers.”
Outgoing chair Nicholas Saphir said: “Whilst the board and I are naturally disappointed that Graham will be leaving AHDB, it is clear the organisation is well placed to continue delivering real benefit for levy payers.
“Graham has driven significant and beneficial progress within AHDB, helping to deliver for its levy payers at a time of significant change for our industry.
“With the arrival of Emily Norton as the new chair, and a strong leadership team in place, AHDB will continue the momentum that it has built whilst a successor is sought.”
