NFU Sugar and British Sugar have announced a new Head of the British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO).
Dr Vicky Foster will join BBRO on 19 February from AHDB where, latterly, she was Head of Research and Knowledge Exchange Programme Management.
In her 15 years at AHDB, Dr Foster held a variety of senior leadership roles and also brings experience of science delivery in the cereals and oilseeds industry.
Her PhD was in plant pathology, and is is well aware of the plant protection issues facing the sugar beet industry.
The BBRO is jointly funded and governed by NFU Sugar on behalf of growers and British Sugar.
BBRO implements and commissions research specifically for the UK sugar beet industry, its research has underpinned a 50% increase in sugar beet productivity over the last 30 years.
'Key driver'
Dr Foster said she is "very excited" to be joining BBRO at an important time for the sugar beet industry.
“BBRO’s research and knowledge exchange has been a key driver in sugar beet productivity growth over many years and I look forward to joining a great team and continuing our work to address the key challenges facing our industry,” she explained.
Michael Sly, Chairman of NFU Sugar and BBRO Executive Board member said Dr Foster has a "great passion" for the arable sector.
“The BBRO Executive Board looks forward to working with her and the BBRO team to deliver even greater improvements for our industry.”
Paul Kenward, Managing Director of British Sugar and BBRO Executive Board member said: “The BBRO has been a cornerstone of helping our industry thrive, and getting to the strong yields and economic position we are now in. The appointment of Dr Vicky Foster signals the commitment of British Sugar and our partners in NFU Sugar to even stronger delivery.”
