The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has announced
that Janet Swadling OBE has agreed to become the Interim Chief Executive,
effective 19 August, with the current CEO, Graham Wilkinson, departing on
22 August. The appointment by AHDB is to allow for a necessary break in
employment for Graham as he moves to a pork sector levy payer.

Janet brings more than 35 years of senior leadership experience across the
public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. A former independent board
member of AHDB, she has a strong track record in governance, strategic
leadership, and organisational transformation. Her previous roles include
Interim Chief Executive of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and inaugural
CEO of The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (TIAH).

As Interim CEO, Janet will provide continuity and focus for AHDB as the
organisation moves forward with the recruitment of a permanent Chief
Executive.

Emily Norton, Chair of AHDB, commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Janet
Swadling as our Interim Chief Executive. Her deep understanding of AHDB and
her wealth of leadership experience make her ideally placed to guide the
organisation through this period of transition. I want to thank Graham for
his commitment and achievements during his time with us and wish him all
the very best for the future.”

Janet Swadling said: “It’s a privilege to return to AHDB in this
capacity. I look forward to working with our colleagues, levy payers and
stakeholders to maintain momentum on key priorities and ensure a smooth and
stable transition as the search for a permanent CEO continues.”

The recruitment process for AHDB’s permanent Chief Executive is already
well underway, with a high-quality field of applicants currently being
considered.