British dairy co-operative First Milk has appointed Nasair Hussain as its new chief executive officer (CEO).
Hussain’s appointment follows an “extensive search process”, according to First Milk, after incumbent CEO Shelagh Hancock revealed in April that she planned to retire.
Hancock will step down on 1 March 2027 after 10 years with the farmer-owned dairy co-operative.
Bringing more than 30 years of international experience across dairy, fresh produce and food manufacturing, Hussain spent more than 20 years with Irish co-operative Kerry Group before taking on leadership roles at Dale Farm and APS Produce Group. He will join from his current CEO role with West Sussex-based APS Produce.
First Milk said Hussain has demonstrated a track record of driving commercial growth, strengthening operational performance and developing customer relationships across the retail, foodservice and industrial sectors.
The co-operative added that throughout his career, Hussain has led complex food businesses, combining strategic direction with hands-on operational management to deliver sustainable growth and build commercially focused organisations.
Hugo Mahoney, chairman of First Milk, said: “We are delighted to appoint Nasair as our new chief executive following a thorough and rigorous search process led by the board. He combines deep experience in food manufacturing and primary production with a strong track-record of building high-performing teams and leading multi-site operations. I look forward to working with him to build on the significant progress made under Shelagh’s leadership, while also bringing a new perspective as we continue to evolve and develop the business for the long-term benefit of our members.
“I also want to reiterate my thanks to Shelagh for her leadership of the business over the last 10 years, which has been transformative, and want to wish her all the very best in her retirement when it comes. In the meantime, I’m pleased that she will remain with us until the end of March, allowing for a comprehensive handover and ensuring continuity as we make this important transition.”
Based in Glasgow, First Milk is owned by around 700 dairy families who supply its milk, and was formed in 2001 through the merger of Scottish Milk and Axis Milk.
The group works closely with Nestlé, supplying fresh milk for brands including KitKat and Nescafé. It is also a strategic partner for Ornua’s UK hard cheese distribution business.
Nasair Hussain, chief executive designate of First Milk, said: “I am delighted to be joining First Milk. It is a business with a strong sense of purpose, a distinctive farmer-owned model and an excellent reputation across the dairy industry.
“The dairy industry and wider agrifood sector is evolving at pace, and I’m looking forward to spending time with First Milk members and colleagues, learning about the business, and working with the team to build on the progress made in recent years. There is a strong platform in place and I’m excited about the opportunity to help shape the next chapter for First Milk to create sustainable, long-term resilience for farmer members.”
