AHDB has welcomed a new recruit to work with potato growers in the East of England.
David Wilson has taken on the role of knowledge exchange manager for the potato sector in East Anglia and the South East.
Track record
David will be using his experience and knowledge of the industry to work with growers on several key AHDB initiatives.
Having started as a farm manager and then agronomist, David’s track record includes time spent at major food manufacturer McCain Foods.
He joins AHDB from agrochemical firm Syngenta where he worked as an area manager and potato specialist.
David’s comprehensive experience of the industry means he is well qualified to provide support in a key potato growing region of the UK and familiar with many growers throughout the country.
Discussing his new role, he said: “Having spent the majority of my career working in and alongside the potato industry, joining AHDB’s Arable Knowledge Exchange Team seemed like a natural progression.
“I’m looking forward to supporting growers by sharing knowledge, challenging perceptions and providing new ways of working.
There are a number of issues facing the industry: Regulatory changes mean that we must be more resourceful when it comes to crop protection, while the prevalence of a number of damaging pests and diseases means it remains crucial for growers to be open to new ideas.
David joins AHDB’s newly-formed Arable Knowledge Exchange team, following the decision to combine the Potatoes and Cereals and Oilseeds sector teams.
David will join Dr. Bill Watts, who recently joined as the potatoes knowledge exchange manager for the West Midlands, South West, and Wales.
Bill specialises in potato cyst nematode (PCN) control and has been overseeing the presentation of results from AHDB’s Strategic Farms at events in the west of the UK.
AHDB Knowledge Exchange provides the first point of contact to growers, and others involved in the industry, looking to access services funded by the levy.
The new Arable Knowledge Exchange team of 22 professionals provides a more coordinated and effective offer to the arable sector through joined up events, resources, campaigns and stakeholder engagement.
The team will also provide expertise on areas common to both potatoes and cereals and oilseeds such as:
- Soils;
- Rotations;
- Benchmarking; and
- Integrated pest management.
Following the drought experienced last season and with Brexit on the horizon, knowledge exchange continues to offer a vital service to growers facing uncertainty and challenging conditions.
Graham Bannister said: “We’re delighted to welcome David. His experience and knowledge will make a valuable addition to the team and ensure that AHDB continues to provide growers with practical and relevant information to an ever-changing industry.”
Farmers can contact David directly by email on: [email protected].
