The United Pig Co-operative (UPC) has announced the appointment of Tim Benson as its new managing director, following a comprehensive recruitment process.
Mr Benson will officially join UPC in February 2026, succeeding the current joint general manager Phil Woodall, who will retire from the business, after a long and prestigious career in the industry, spanning more than four decades.
Andy McGowan, the other joint general manager, will move into the role of technical & sustainability director.
Mr Benson brings extensive senior leadership experience across the commodities, ingredients, and food sectors. He has a proven track record in developing strong commercial strategies, leading multi-site teams and building long-term supply chain partnerships.
Most recently, he served as procurement director at Moguntia Food Group where he led a team of 18 across the UK, Europe and China. He previously held senior positions with Newly Weds Foods, Tesco, Kerry Ingredients & Flavours and Frontier Agriculture, giving him deep expertise across the agri-food supply chain.
“We are delighted to welcome Tim to UPC,” Mr Woodall said. “His commercial acumen, strategic vision, and collaborative leadership style make him an ideal fit for our co-operative. Tim has consistently demonstrated an ability to build robust supply chain partnerships and deliver long-term value to both producers and customers.”
UPC said his appointment marks a new chapter for it, as it continues to strengthen its position in the UK pig sector and support its members through innovation, resilience and sustainable growth.
Following the sad and untimely passing of its previous chairman Rob Beckett, the Board has also announced that Chris Down, of CR Down Farming, has been appointed as UPC’s new chairman.
He has been a member of the organisation for over 20 years and has served on the board for two years, bringing a wealth of experience to the role from his pig production, farming and wider business interests in south-west England.