The chief executive of one of the South West’s biggest rural businesses and employers is to step down after 20 years in charge.
Over the past two decades, Andrew Jackson has overseen significant development within the farmer-owned business Mole Valley Farmers, taking it from a mainly agricultural retail focused business to one that is now also a leading player in the ruminant feed sector.
During that time the business, which was established in 1960 by a small group of farmers in South Molton, Devon, has expanded nationally with annual turnover increasing from around £65million to nearly £500million.
Throughout that process, the core principles of providing value and support with integrity to farmer members and the wider agricultural community have remained.
Mr Jackson said: “It has been a privilege and honour to serve as CEO over the last 20 years. I have endeavoured to play a part - along with many colleagues old and new - to uphold and modernise our founding principles that have underpinned the progress of the company to the level it is today.
“I have very much enjoyed the opportunity of working with so many members of staff and shareholders who, like myself, remain committed to ensuring that the ethos of the company continues.”
Current retail sales and operations director, Jack Cordery, has been selected as new CEO by the Mole Valley Farmers board, who have planned carefully with Mr Jackson for his succession and the eventual handover.
Mr Cordery has worked for the business for around 12 years and gained a broad understanding of both agricultural and retail elements, putting him in good stead to assume the position.
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This month (January 2020), Mr Cordery will take on the role of deputy chief executive. He will then assume the position of chief executive on May 1, 2020, with Mr Jackson supporting through to the autumn.
Mr Cordery said: “I’m incredibly proud to be given this opportunity to lead the business and build on everything that Andrew has achieved. I’m passionate about our sense of purpose and potential to help improve profitability for our farmer members.”
Mole Valley Farmers was listed as the sixth largest business in Devon and Cornwall by the Western Morning News in 2019, with a turnover of £461,815,008 and 1,939 employees. The cooperative has branches in Bridgend, Bridgwater, Cullompton, Frome, Gwinear, Holsworthy, Liskeard, Newton Abbot, Penzance, South Molton, St Columb, Tavistock and Yeovil.
