One of Canada’s most famous and trusted cheese connoisseurs has joined the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) to help enhance the work of British dairy exporters in the North American markets.
With more than 36 years’ experience of the specialty cheese business in Canada, Paul Blake, former president of Finica Food Specialties, has this week taken up his new role of dairy agent for AHDB.
Blake, who was also an executive member of the International Cheese Council of Canada for 25 years, will use his knowledge, expertise and experience to help UK dairy exporters crack the all-important Canadian and US markets.
AHDB senior export manager for dairy, Lucy Randolph, said: “We are delighted to welcome Paul Blake to AHDB’s export team.
Paul Blake
“His extensive experience and knowledge of the North American markets will prove invaluable to our dairy exporters.
“As well as extensive experience in the Canadian marketplace, his relationship with American companies over the years will also bring huge benefits to exporters looking to sell their dairy products in the US.
AHDB exports is continually looking for ways to help its levy payers maximise on any potential opportunities in new and growing markets and we strongly believe that Paul will help enhance the work of AHDB and our exporters in these important markets.”
In his most recent role, Blake was instrumental in successfully launching ‘Best in Category of New Cheese Brands’ to the Canadian marketplace.
He was also a driving force for Canadian goat cheese development which facilitated its eventual entry into the US.
Prior to this, he spent nine years with the largest dairy cooperative in Canada.
