First Milk appoints three new directors as part of restructure

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First Milk has announced the appointment of three new Directors to its Executive Team

Stefan Mason, David Garland, and Louise Motala

First Milk has appointed three new directors, following the creation of three business units as part of a recent restructure.

Louise Motala, Stefan Mason, and David Garland have joined the British farmer-owned dairy co-operative’s executive team to lead its milk, cheese, and BV business units.

The announcement follows what CEO Shelagh Hancock dubbed “solid business performance” by First Milk in 2025, with turnover up 20%, in comments previously reported by The Grocer.

Heading the Milk Business Unit, Motala’s role will focus on milk sourcing and ensuring customer requirements and product integrity are met, while helping members accelerate the adoption of regenerative practices across First Milk farms.

With more than 25 years in the food and horticultural sectors, Motala recently held senior roles at Bridge Farm Group – she joined as its commercial director in 2017, became MD in 2020, and was CEO of its bioscience division in 2023.

Taking charge of the Cheese Business Unit, Mason’s role combines commercial, technical, and creamery operations, including First Milk’s two cheese sites in Pembrokeshire and the Lake District.

The industry veteran of more than 20 years has joined First Milk from William Jackson Food Group, where he served as operations and supply chain director.

Garland, whose positions prior to joining First Milk included MD roles at Sodexo and The Billington Group, will lead the BV Business Unit which produces specialist chilled dairy products at First milk’s Blackmore Vale site.

“Our new structure is designed to bring us closer to our customers and the market,” Hancock said. “I’m delighted to welcome Louise, Stefan, and David to the executive team.

“Their breadth and depth of experience will be a real asset as we continue to drive the business forward.”