NFU Scotland has appointed its new Food Policy Manager to continue to build relations with retailers, processors and consumers.
John Armour, a farmer’s son from the outskirts of Campbeltown, Kintyre, joins the team in the full-time permanent post as part of NFU Scotland’s influential policy team.
In the last 18 months the role of Food Policy Manager has been developed, and John will continue the good work already done in this field by Kylie Barclay, who has moved on to pastures new.
NFU Scotland Chief Executive Scott Walker commented: “John will continue to build on the success of his predecessor in being an active advocate for the farming industry in the supply chain. Ensuring that the country’s farmer’s voices are heard in a rapidly changing retailer environment is critical.
“It is important that we press for fair contracts and fair prices in the domestic market and look to maximise export market opportunities.
“Assisting our chicken members as the industry goes through restructuring; securing a cereal summit to look at bringing new malting capacity to Scotland in order to increase the local demand for our barley and tempting Scottish shoppers with fresh, tasty Scotch lamb at 12 venues around the country were but three of our food policy actions last year.
“With an industry meeting with the Grocery Code Adjudicator early in the New Year John will ensure that Scottish farmers’ voices are heard in the supply chain.”
On his appointment, 23-year-old John said: “It is a great privilege to be joining the Union. Growing up on a dairy farm has meant that I’ve always had a direct tie to NFU Scotland and I value the important work done to improve the lives and business opportunities available to Scottish farmers.
“After studying International Politics at university this is a fantastic opportunity for me which utilises a skillset I’ve developed through the combination of university study and hands-on farming experience. My specific remit of representing our members’ interests in supply chain and food retail discussions is a thrilling prospect and I look forward to grappling with the key issues affecting the supply chain, and to working with everyone at NFUS to effect positive change to benefit the whole of the Scottish agricultural community.” Ends
Notes to Editors
- A photograph of John is available by emailing media@nfus.org.uk or calling 0131 472 4108.
Contact Ruth McClean on 0141 472 4108