New director post gives renewed AHDB focus on Scotland

Paul Flanagan, who joined AHDB in January as Strategy Director for Dairy, has been appointed to the role with immediate effect. He will have accountability for managing a cross-sector approach from the ten staff based in Scotland, and will be the key point of contact for the Scottish Government, and other key Scottish food and farming bodies.

Paul will continue with his dairy responsibilities while taking up the role.

The move by the organisation comes at a time when it is readjusting internally to ensure it is fit for the future and the challenges and opportunities that are fast approaching with Brexit.

“This move recognises that the food and farming landscape in Scotland is unique, with a large proportion of mixed farms and a tight-knit group of influential stakeholders,” said Paul, who previously worked with dairy farmer co-operative First Milk and drinks company Diageo

 “Our Scottish levy payers are already well-served by a dedicated office in Edinburgh, with staff focused on Scotland’s farmers and growers, and a separate communications resource. This additional change will give greater transparency and clear lines of communication for levy payers, stakeholder and government officials.

“Our aim is to build a series of even stronger partnerships to make AHDB an essential part of the delivery landscape in Scotland.”

The role has been put in place for an initial 12 month period, at that point we will review what is required for Scotland going forward.