John Davidson appointed as new NFU Scotland CEO
30th June 2023
NFU Scotland has welcomed John Davidson as its new chief executive this week, marking the appointment of the 11th individual to assume the role in the past 110 years.
John Davidson, NFU Scotland’s new Chief Executive takes up his post this week.
Mr Davidson was formerly deputy chief executive at the industry leadership body, Scotland Food & Drink, which he joined in 2020 after a lengthy career in various senior roles across the Scottish government.
His previous roles include serving as Private Secretary to the former Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Richard Lochhead, and, most recently, as the head of food and drink at Scottish government for five years.
Mr Davidson led the development of the new national food and drink strategy for Scotland, launched by the First Minister Humza Yousaf at the Royal Highland Show last week (23rd June). The strategy is hoped to strengthen the resilience of the entire industry and grow its value and reputation domestically and internationally.
Commenting on his new role at NFU Scotland, Mr Davidson said: “I am delighted to join the Union at such a pivotal time for the industry and am very much looking forward to working closely with the Board and a hugely talented staff team.”
Mr Davidson has had the pleasure of meeting some NFU Scotland members at the Royal Highland Show and is looking forward to connecting with many more over the coming months.
“The show was a fantastic showcase for our industry, and it was good to see so many Government ministers and Politicians in attendance, including the new First Minister. I believe the future of the industry is bright and I look forward to representing our members’ interests to ensure a vibrant and profitable future.”
Welcoming the organisation’s new CEO, president Martin Kennedy said: “John is the ideal candidate to lead the organisation into our next chapter. It is a time of big challenges and opportunities for the future.
“John has the leadership skills we need to drive forward the business of NFU Scotland and lead our fantastic team in delivering the best possible outcomes for our growing farming and crofting membership.”
