Pilgrim’s has announced the appointment of Barney Kay as its new agricultural director.
The news follows Kay’s departure from Sainsbury’s as the Big 4 grocer’s head of agriculture.
He is set to replace Andrew Saunders, who leaves the position after a “distinguished” 42-year career with the company.
Kay was previously Tesco’s head of agriculture from 2015 to 2019 and general manager at Pilgrim’s sister company Moy Park from 2013 to 2015.
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He also worked as the North-East regional director for the National Farmers’ Union from 2011 to 2013 and as general manager for the National Pig Association from 2005 to 2011.
“We are thrilled to be welcoming someone of Barney’s calibre to the business and know that his unique experience will help us to further develop our relationships with farmers and customers,” Pigrlim’s UK chief executive Andrew Cracknell said.
“We will of course be sad to see Andrew leave … we wish him every success in his new endeavors.”
Kay added: “Pilgrim’s UK has established a unique approach to working with farmers which has helped establish its well-deserved reputation.
“I can’t wait to get started and help take Pilgrim’s agricultural operations even further.”
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