Today the Australian Fresh Produce Alliance (AFPA) Board has appointed Claire McClelland as CEO of the AFPA to deliver improvements in export market access, sustainability, and workforce. Claire’s experience in commercial and industry fresh produce roles will mean the AFPA continues to deliver for the industry.
Established in January 2019, the AFPA has become the major voice of the fresh produce sector, delivering real outcomes for the industry in key policy areas, including workforce, export access, and sustainability. In 2019, AFPA funded research that demonstrated the importance of fresh produce packaging to maintain freshness and reduce food waste. During COVID, the AFPA worked closely with industry and government to support the arrival of more than 10,000 Pacific visa holders to pick and pack fruit and vegetables. More recently, the AFPA has worked with industry and government to develop a new Agriculture Visa to complement the Pacific programs and deliver structural change.
After more than three years running the AFPA, current CEO Michael Rogers will take up a new senior executive role in the meat industry starting in July.
“As the inaugural CEO of the AFPA, Michael has established the AFPA as a leading advocacy body within agriculture representing the interests of members and the broader industry to retailers, governments, and the Australian community. Michael has made a significant contribution to our industry, including ensuring the continued operation of the fruit and vegetable sector during COVID and achieving long-term structural reform of the workforce. We thank Michael and wish him well in his next steps,” said Mr. John Said, Chairman, AFPA.
As AFPA Manager of Communication and Engagement over the last three years, Claire has driven engagement in the workforce and been a key industry representative on a wide range of issues. The AFPA Board unanimously supported Claire as their choice to lead the organization forward. “The AFPA Board and I are delighted that Claire has accepted the role of CEO, and we look forward to working with Claire on the key challenges facing our industry. Claire has demonstrated experience in the industry and with the AFPA, delivering results, working constructively with everyone in the supply chain, and working in the best interests of members and farmers,” said Mr. Said.
With continued cost pressures and inflation in the economy, and a complex consumer demand picture, it is vital that governments commit the necessary resources and effort to further open access to key international markets for fresh produce growers, such as Japan, to grow exports, jobs, businesses and regional communities. “With access to more customers both in Australia and overseas, the fresh produce industry has the potential to grow significantly over the next decade. My priority is to see the fresh produce industry enter a new phase of sustainable growth to reach $20 billion by 2030 through improved export market access, demonstrated sustainability credentials, and embedding a productive and returning workforce,” said Ms. McClelland.
Claire’s appointment as CEO is effective from 27 June 2022.
For more information:
www.freshproduce.org.au
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