Ralling joins as LEAF found that farmers were facing “growing expectations” to demonstrate environmental improvements alongside productive, commercially viable farming
LEAF said that Ralling had spent his career to date developing supply chains across the agriculture and horticulture sectors, working with stakeholders internationally to deliver domestic and international supply chains across UK, Europe, and Africa.
His experience includes director level roles with Flamingo, Place UK, and Marginpar, working in and with growers and producer groups with the aim to deliver “sustainable supply chain excellence” across agriculture, horticulture and fresh produce.
Most recently, Ralling worked independently, providing strategic and commercial advice to organisations across the horticulture and agri-tech sectors in the UK and internationally.
“Jonathan brings valuable international leadership expertise, together with a deep understanding of farming and fresh produce supply chains.”
David Webster, CEO of LEAF, said: “We are delighted that Jonathan has joined us at an important point in the development of LEAF Marque. Over the past five years, LEAF Marque has more than tripled in size, demonstrating the growing demand for credible environmental assurance across global farming and food supply chains.
“Jonathan brings valuable international leadership expertise, together with a deep understanding of farming and fresh produce supply chains. He will help us build on that progress, ensuring LEAF Marque continues to offer pragmatic and credible responses to the complex environmental challenges facing global agriculture.”
Commenting on his appointment, Ralling said: “I am excited to be joining LEAF at such an important time for LEAF Marque and to have the opportunity to work within a purpose-driven organisation with an exceptional team of people. Having worked across farming, horticulture and fresh produce supply chains in the UK and internationally, I have seen first-hand the challenges facing farmers, the opportunities that exist, and the need for environmentally progressive practice as we help to build food systems fit for the future.”
“My priority will be to ensure that LEAF Marque continues to set a credible direction for more sustainable farming whilst remaining practical for farmers and meaningful to the businesses and consumers they supply.”
Ralling’s appointment comes at an important time for LEAF Marque, which has experienced “significant growth” in recent years. LEAF Marque is now used by more than 3,600 certified farming businesses across around 10,000 farms in 62 countries, with more than 541,000 hectares of LEAF Marque certified land in the UK.
