AgriSearch has announced the appointment of Norman McMordie as its new chair.
He succeeds Prof. Gerry Boyle, who is stepping down as chair and from the AgriSearch board after over four years of service.
AgriSearch is Northern Ireland’s farmer-funded research and innovation body.
Norman McMordie brings extensive industry experience, having been raised on a Co. Down beef farm and beginning his career with Richardson’s Fertilisers before moving to Dalgety Agriculture.
Following Dalgety’s exit from Northern Ireland, he joined the Veterinary Surgeons’ Supply Company, where he served as managing director for 20 years.
He retired from the role in 2018 and remains a director. He has been a trustee of AgriSearch since 2021.
Chair
Alongside the new appointment, Ian McCluggage has been reappointed as vice chair and is joined by Dr. Keith Agnew.
Ian McCluggage, who comes from a dairy farming background in Co. Antrim, previously held senior roles within the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), including head of branch for knowledge and technology transfer operational policy and head of dairy advisory.
He has also served as president of both the Ulster Grassland Society and the Northern Ireland Institute of Agricultural Science, and was recognised with a lifetime achievement award at the Farming Life Awards in 2021.
He has been a trustee of AgriSearch since 2021.
Vice chair
Dr. Keith Agnew brings significant scientific and commercial expertise, holding a PhD in animal nutrition and production from Queen’s University Belfast.
His career has included senior leadership roles such as managing director of Dale Farm’s agri division.
He is currently chief executive of Food Fortress Ltd and a director of Fermentrics (UK) Ltd, with a strong focus on feed efficiency, food safety and carbon reduction.
He joined the AgriSearch board in 2025.
Importance of research
Speaking on his appointment as chair, Norman McMordie said: “I am honoured to take on the role of chair of AgriSearch at a time when research, innovation and knowledge exchange are more important than ever for the future of our farming sector.
“AgriSearch has a strong track record of delivering practical, farmer-focused research, and I look forward to working with the board to build on this and ensure the organisation continues to deliver real value for levy payers.
“I would also like to thank Prof. Gerry Boyle for his leadership over the past four years and the wealth of experience and insight he brought to the board.”
Gerry Boyle added: “It has been a privilege to serve as chair of AgriSearch over the past three years.
“I wish Norman and the board every success in continuing to deliver practical outcomes for Northern Ireland’s farmers.”
