THE National Beef Association (NBA) has appointed an interim chief executive officer.

The chairman of the NBA, Andrew Laughton, has announced the appointment of Neil Shand as interim chief executive officer. Mr Shand takes on the role with immediate effect, after Chris Mallon’s departure from the post earlier this year.

Mr Shand, until recently a trustee of the NBA, will carry the organisation through until the Beef Expo at Darlington later in the year. Prior to this, Neil was CEO of the British Simmental Cattle Society.

Andrew Laughton said: "Neil has been filling the void left by Mr Mallon’s departure since the end of January. During this time, he has represented NBA members, and the beef industry in general, in a wide range of industry discussions in influential forums, both at national and at Government level.

“He has overseen a significant lift in the quality, quantity and scope of material produced, and has been particularly effective in raising our profile and making the voice of our members heard on social media.

“A recent presence, both in the agricultural press via podcast interviews and in print, and nationally via interviews on national radio and in the mainstream printed press, has resulted in a new lease of life in the organisation.

“Along with the rest of the Board, we are looking forward to a new and effective chapter in the organisation’s history as we work towards Beef Expo. The new date for the Expo, postponed from its original date in May, will be announced in due course.

“We look forward to welcoming you all to this event to celebrate and support the British beef industry and its associated sectors.”