Following a review by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, the Isle of Man Meat Company is entering a new chapter with the appointment of Steve Pickett as Chairman and a refreshed Board of Directors.
Mr Pickett (pictured) brings significant board-level leadership experience across both government and commercial sectors. He joins existing Directors Philip Birnie and Andrew McKeown, alongside newly appointed Director David Bradford. Allan Skillicorn will continue in his role as the Fatstock Marketing Association Director.
Mr Bradford adds valuable specialist financial expertise, with extensive experience across the food sector and red meat industry.
The Board of the Isle of Man Meat Company has recently led a focused programme to progress the business at a critical time for the Island’s agricultural sector. This has included addressing rising livestock costs and increasing biosecurity challenges. Key areas of focus have been operational improvement and strengthened compliance, resulting in an extension of beef shelf life and the successful delivery of a new commercial venture with Tesco.
DEFA has also acknowledged the valuable contribution of previous Board members, thanking them for their stewardship and commitment during a period of change. With this new Board in place, the Isle of Man Meat Company is well positioned to build on the efforts of its predecessors and to continue to support the Island’s agricultural economy into the future.
Mr Pickett said: “I’m very much looking forward to getting started with the team and the Board. The Isle of Man Meat Company is a vital part of the Island’s agricultural supply chain, and I hope we can continue making progress in reducing the level of subvention while pursuing the significant opportunities that exist for Manx meat.”
Clare Barber MHK, Minister for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: “I am confident that the combination of existing Board members and new appointees will maintain and strengthen the company’s momentum. The food security and animal health challenges currently facing the Island underline the critical importance of the Island’s only abattoir. I trust that Steve and the Board will build on the progress established by their predecessors and continue to support the Island in this essential capacity.”
