Food and Drink Wales has announced six new appointments to its industry board.
The new members of the Food and Drink Wales Industry Board will engage with both Welsh Government and businesses throughout the country to “grow, promote and enhance” the reputation of the Welsh food and drink sector both at home and abroad.
Professor David Lloyd, who is the current director of the Food Industry Centre, was announced chair of the board. He has worked for a variety of food companies as technical director, and in his current role he works closely with both the private sector and Welsh Government.
The deputy chair of the board was revealed to be Alison Lea-Wilson, a joint owner of The Anglesey Sea Salt Co Ltd. Lea Wilson started the company with her husband in 1997, and exports to around 15 countries today.
The further four newly appointed board members are Alison Harvey, agri supply chain advisor for Rural Advisor Co; Andy Richardson, partner at the European Food and Farming Partnerships (EFFP); Graham Black, non-executive director of Seafish and Valerie Creusailor, CEO and co-founder of Goch and Company.
Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said: “Welsh food and drink continues to go from strength to strength with exports for the sector reaching £797 million in 2022, a record high.
“The members of the industry board bring with them a wealth of experience, expertise and passion to see the sector grow further still.
“I look forward to working with them as they build on the important work the board does to ensure a thriving future for the food and drink industry here in Wales.”
David Lloyd, chair of the Food and Drink Wales Industry Board, said: “It is a great honour to be elected as chair of the Welsh Food and Drink Industry Board at this crucial time for the sector (food and drink businesses) in Wales.
“I would like to welcome the newly elected members to the Board who are all keen to use the breadth of their experience, knowledge and skills to promote Welsh food and drink and develop local, national and international market opportunities.
“All members of the board look forward to working alongside the Welsh Government whilst enhancing existing partnerships with industrial partners and forging new relationships with other members of the food chain to help further develop our sector.”
