Nick Allen, chief executive of the British Meat Processors Association, has today announced his intention to retire, ending a 50-year career in the sector.
His career has spanned farming and market development roles for the Meat and Livestock Commission, AHDB and the English Beef and Lamb Executive, before his current role at the organisation representing meat industry companies.
As chief executive of BMPA, he has re-shaped the association to become the UK’s largest and most representative trade body for the British meat industry. 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, the organisation said.
Mr 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 will now begin for the new CEO of BMPA and, to ensure a smooth transition, Mr Allen has agreed to stay in post until his successor is appointed.