Nigel Penlington said he would not be going far from the pig industry as left AHDB after 14 years with the levy body in its various guises.
One of the pig industry’s most familiar figures, Mr Penlington joined the Meat and Livestock Commission in 2004 on a three-year contract to help the industry through the new IPPC regulations. The job has grown since then and his last role at AHDB, as head of environment and buildings, incorporated a wide remit.
A regular columnist for Pig World, he won the 2010 Chris Brant Award in recognition of his work in gaining relief for pig businesses from the IPPC regulations.
The citation stated: “His ability to critically analyse Environment Agency technospeak and challenge both questionable science and also Britain’s interpretation of European Union law – and then present the facts in a fashion we can all understand – is now legend. Even Environment Agency staff recognise his ability to help them interact more effectively with producers.”
Mr Penlington, who left at the end of February, thanked everyone who had supported him during his time at BPEX/AHDB. He said he had decided that now was the right time for a change. “Despite many people asking if I am retiring, I am not there yet. I am looking at a few options, but expect to be working as a freelance consultant, and do not intend to go far from the pig industry,” he said.
His boss at AHDB, Susannah Bolton, said: “Nigel has been an inspiration to work with over recent years. His knowledge and expertise are greatly respected and I am sure that he will continue to provide invaluable support to the pig industry.”
NPA chief executive Zoe Davies said: “Nigel has made an enormous contribution to the pig industry over the years and I want to thank him on behalf of all our members who have benefited from his knowledge, dedication and persistence. The pig industry would be much the poorer without his work.
“We are sad to see him go but looking forward to him being available in a consultancy role!”