AHDB has appointed Mark Haighton as its new pork sector director, taking over from Angela Christison, who will step down from the role later this year.
Bringing over 25 years’ experience in the pig sector, Mr Haighton began his career as a livestock buyer at Geo Adams & Sons before moving to Tulip, Pilgrim’s UK and latterly Sofina Foods, gaining first-hand insight across the supply chain.
He has also contributed extensively to industry governance, serving 13 years on the Red Tractor Pig Sector Board and over six years on the AHDB Pork Sector Council.
Mr Haighton said: “I am delighted to be joining AHDB as the new pork sector director. Having worked for some of the UK’s major integrated pork production businesses, I have been fortunate enough to gain a wide range of experience from farmer engagement and abattoir operations to strategic leadership and team development. I’m excited to work with levy payers and the AHDB team to deliver real value for levy payers.
“I’d like to thank Angela for her dedication and leadership. She has been a fantastic advocate for our industry, and I look forward to building on the strong foundations she has laid.”
Glen Nimmo, chair of the Pork Sector Council, added: “I am thrilled that we have secured someone of Mark’s calibre to continue and extend the great work being done on behalf of levy payers. He brings a powerful combination of a deep understanding of AHDB’s mission and up-to-date senior industry experience of the challenges and opportunities facing producers and processors. I thoroughly look forward to working with him.”
Angela, who has been with AHDB since 2018, said: “It has been an honour to serve levy payers and work alongside such a passionate team. The pork sector has shown real resilience through some difficult years, and I am proud of the progress we’ve made together.
“I leave knowing the sector is in excellent hands with Mark, whose knowledge and commitment will be a real asset to producers and processors alike.”
Mr Haighton will take up the role from September 29. Angela will continue to support the strategic planning process during her last couple of months in the role.
