British Meat Processors Association CEO Nick Allen has announced his intention to retire from the industry body, bringing a 50-year career in the food sector to an end.
Allen, who took over at the helm of the BMPA in 2017, previously worked in farming and market development roles at the Meat & Livestock Commission, AHDB and the English Beef & Lamb Executive.
As CEO of BMPA, he has been at the forefront of the meat sector’s efforts to contend with the challenges of Brexit and the Covid pandemic, in addition to climate change and the pivot towards more sustainable production and inflation.
He had “re-shaped the association” to become the UK’s largest and most representative trade body for the British meat industry, the BMPA said.
“He has cultivated connections across farming, processing, retail and government to forge a more collaborative approach to the UK’s food challenges and given a stronger voice to meat processing companies,” it added.
Allen said: “While I’m ready to start the next chapter, this industry remains a big part of my life and I’m proud to be able to hand over a revived and more influential organisation to the next generation of leaders.
“I hope it will provide a solid platform to take on the new challenges facing the British meat industry.”
BMPA president Tom Kirwan added: “Nick has been a great asset to our association and a staunch advocate for the meat industry. His blend of knowledge, connections and diplomacy along with his ability to rally disparate groups to a common cause has been of great benefit to BMPA members and the wider industry.”
A search for a new CEO for the BMPA will now commence, while Allen has agreed to stay in post until his successor is appointed “to ensure a smooth transition”.
No comments yet