Ripon Farm Services appoints Richard Simpson as new CEO
7th March 2024
Ripon Farm Services has announced the appointment of Richard Simpson as its new chief executive. The company’s former CEO, Geoff Brown, will be stepping into the chairman role.
Mr Simpson became Ripon Farm Services (RFS) commercial director three years ago, with the aim to ensure the company had a structure in place to manage future growth and succession.
He has now been appointed as chief executive and will have full responsibility for the strategic development of RFS, as well as the day-to-day running of the business.
With a background in farming Mr Simpson has extensive experience in transforming companies and is expected to bring a wealth of knowledge, with a fresh perspective, to RFS.
Preserving values
He said: “This is an incredible honour and one which I am terrified about to be honest. Ripon Farm Services is a truly great business and following Geoff to lead the company is the most challenging thing I have ever done.
“What an incredible legacy he has built. We must all work together to ensure that the values on which the company is built are preserved and enhanced in the years to come.”
Mr Brown will continue to be ever-present in the company and advise on strategic direction to ensure the seamless transfer of knowledge and expertise.
He will also be able to dedicate more time and energy to his upcoming charitable endeavours in his role as president of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, while ensuring a smooth leadership transition within RFS.
Keep moving forward
Mr Brown said: “I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all employees, customers and the folks at John Deere who have been instrumental in our journey over the past 40 years.
“The unwavering commitment, hard work, and passion have been invaluable in shaping the company into what it is today. That said, we must keep moving forward. There is a lot to do, and we must continue to improve, embrace innovation, and always strive to surpass customer expectations.
“I am thrilled to be able to have Richard at the helm, he has been instrumental in driving the changes we needed to make in the last three years, and I look forward to him leading the company through the required changes toward even greater achievements.”
Well-known for its products and support
Ripon Farm Services was established in 1982 and became one of the largest John Deere dealers in the UK. The company, which employs over 300 people, covers 14 sites across Yorkshire, Teesside, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.
RFS is responsible for the sale and aftersales support of agricultural machinery, ground care equipment, and professional turf equipment by John Deere and other major manufacturers.
David Williams attended the company’s annual two-day January show in Harrogate – read his full write-up in the March 2024 issue of Farmers Guide.
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