Peter Kendall to chair AHDB
Kendall, who left the NFU after eight years at the helm earlier this year, takes over from John Godfrey – who stepped down after his term in office at the end of March.
Kendall said: “John Godfrey and his team have worked hard to drive synergies and reduce administrative costs to levy payers. It is essential that this work continues and a clear vision is communicated to levy payers to earn their support and backing for the important work that will be required to grow British agriculture over the coming years.”
This is a Ministerial appointment, made by Owen Paterson, the Secretary of State for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). It was approved by the Scottish Government, Welsh Government and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development for Northern Ireland.
‘Considerable experience’
Food and farming minister George Eustice said: “I welcome Peter Kendall’s appointment as chair of AHDB and look forward to working with him. He has considerable experience of the farming and food industry so is well placed to take AHDB forward. I would like to thank John Godfrey for all his hard work.”
AHDB ceo, Tom Taylor said: “As a levy board, AHDB performs a unique role providing an independent evidence base to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of UK agriculture and horticulture. Having someone with Kendall’s stature, knowledge and passion for the industry will only help strengthen the role that AHDB plays and take the organisation forward, enabling us to address levy payer needs in the years to come.”
Kendall will be paid £50,000 a year on a two days a week basis. Reasonable travel expenses are also paid.
