AHDB chief executive to step down

She will be stepping down no later than the end of September 2021, or before if a successor can be found sooner.

In the meantime, AHDB said Ms King will work closely with the chair, Nicholas Saphir, the Board and the leadership team to continue to reform AHDB in line with the commitments made to improve levy-payer engagement and value for money.

Handover

Recruitment will begin immediately and there will be a handover period to ensure a smooth transition.

Ms King was keen to have a break with her family next year before continuing to support the industry in other ways.

She said: “It has been a great privilege to lead an incredible team at AHDB and to work with inspirational farmers, growers and partners to deliver our programmes and services. The commitment and dedication of AHDB colleagues has been amazing.

“It is always difficult to craft a farewell message, but I have the comfort of knowing that together we have achieved a good deal and AHDB will go from strength to strength under fresh leadership.

“The new five-year strategy will see AHDB playing a crucial role in helping to grow British agriculture and horticulture at a time of great change and opportunity.

“I would like to thank all those colleagues, stakeholders, partners, board members and levy-payers who have shown me so much support and encouragement over the last five and a half years. You have been awesome.”