Jonathan Eckley has been appointed director of international trade development at the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

Eckley will take up his position with immediate effect and lead the AHDB international trade development team’s work with industry and UK Government to help develop global export opportunities for AHDB levy payers.

He was most recently AHDB’s head of international trade development and has spent his 19-year AHDB career building export strategy.

Recently, AHDB has participated in Foodex in Tokyo, Gulfood in Dubai, SIRHA in Lyon and Expo Carnes y Lácteos in Monterrey as part of its work to support exports. In 2024, UK red meat and dairy exports were worth around £3.5 billion and international trade development remains a critical part of AHDB’s work for livestock levy payers.

Eckley commented: “The value of red meat and dairy exports in 2024 demonstrates the significance of international trade to our livestock sectors. It’s important we have access to a broad portfolio of markets and AHDB’s role is critical in providing technical support, evidence and in-market insight to support the industry’s global ambitions. I’m looking forward to leading the team in helping our red meat and dairy produce thrive on the global stage.”

Graham Wilkinson, AHDB chief executive, said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Jonathan as AHDB’s international trade development director. His wealth of experience and industry knowledge will be invaluable in working on behalf of levy payers helping to ensure exports of our world-class red meat and dairy produce continue to deliver growth and value.”