Nicholas Saphir, Executive Chairman of OMSCo, won the coveted annual Dairy Industry Award at the SW Dairy Dinner last night in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the dairy industry.
The event, which was held at the Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, is now a regular fixture on the dairy calendar and held in high regard by those in the industry.
Nicholas has had, and continues to have, an incredible career in the UK agricultural industry which spans more than four decades. A qualified lawyer, he has extensive experience in global agriculture and has brought a wealth of experience and knowledge to the UK dairy industry, with extremely impressive results.
His current role, as Executive Chairman of OMSCo (Organic Milk Suppliers Co-operative), has seen Nicholas steer the company through extremely challenging market conditions to its current position of leading this cooperative to achieving a turnover of more than £100million.
“Nicholas has proved to be an exceptional leader, with a strong passion for the UK dairy industry,” says Lyndon Edwards, Deputy Chairman, OMSCo. “He is ambitious, has a positive and can-do attitude, and the ability to see global opportunities for OMSCo members, resulting in a strong, dynamic, growing and extremely successful UK dairy co-operative.
“His 12 years at the helm have seen him position OMSCo as the UK’s largest organic dairy company in the UK, representing over 65% of the UK's organic milk supply,” adds Lyndon. “With Nicholas’ leadership and foresight, OMSCo now boasts an extensive portfolio of organic dairy products which are exported around the world.”
An undisputable example of OMSCo’s export market leadership has been its first to market position as the only European producer to qualify for USDA certified organic status.
Previous roles illustrate the respect Nicholas commands in UK agriculture, where he has been appointed to many leadership positions. These include Chairman of the Rural Review (2002-07), Non-executive director of Dairy Crest plc 1987-1993 and Founder Chairman of Food from Britain (1983-1987).
“I’m extremely proud, honoured and surprised – and take this as a tribute to OMSCo, its members and staff,” said Nicholas.
