Stephen will take over from 27 May, having most recently run his own consultancy company advising fresh produce and horticulture companies on commercial, business growth and routes to market.
For the previous 15 years he held senior leadership roles with UK Salads, The Ethical Food Company, Berry Gardens, Mack Multiples, and Flamingo Holdings (UK). He also spent 10 years working in the Netherlands, including five years with Bos Brothers (a Division of Wm Morrison Produce Ltd).
On his appointment Stephen said: 鈥淚 am thrilled to be joining BBRO, I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at BBRO as well as on farms to help drive and communicate advancements, that can actually help to make a meaningful impact on UK farms across the country.鈥�
鈥�My fellow Directors and I look forward to Stephen leading the BBRO team to deliver even greater value for our home-grown sugar industry.鈥�
NFU Sugar Board chair Kit Papworth
鈥榃ork of the BBRO never been more critical鈥�
Kit Papworth, BBRO (British Beet Research Organisation) Director and chair of the NFU Sugar Board said: 鈥淲e are delighted to welcome Stephen to the BBRO.
鈥淗e comes with an impressive track record of leadership and delivery in the fresh produce and horticulture sectors, coupled with experience of working with farmers and growers around the world.
鈥淭he work of the BBRO has never been more critical. Against a backdrop of tightening farming margins, changing consumer expectations, and an ever-shrinking plant protection toolbox, its work is paramount to ensuring the long-term viability of our homegrown beet sector.
鈥淢y fellow Directors and I look forward to Stephen leading the BBRO team to deliver even greater value for our home-grown sugar industry.鈥�
NFU Sugar would like to thank Professor Mark Stevens for acting as interim Head of BBRO since last September. Once Stephen is in post, Mark will return to his critical role as Head of Science.