A change is imminent at the helm of a group that represents the food and agribusiness industry in South-East Queensland.
Jacqui Price has announced she is stepping down as chair of the Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN). She will pass the baton to respected business leader David Hoath.
Ms Price was appointed to the board in 2017 and is FAN’s longest-serving director.
Under her leadership, FAN was restructured so that its successful operating model could be rolled out regionally across the Sunshine Coast, Gympie, Noosa and Moreton Bay.
Ms Price, who was appointed to the role of chair in 2020, said “the timing is right” to step down.
“It has been an honour to be a part of an organisation that has the food and agribusiness sector at its very heart,” she said.
“By creating a connected, collaborative community, we were able to curate specific programs that have helped many of our members grow and scale and to be ready when buyers have come looking for bespoke, Queensland-made products and produce.
“Importantly, people from all over the world now know of and desire products that are created in our region.
“We really have cemented our place as a food destination, and I am incredibly proud of that.
“The timing is right for me to hand the reins over to someone who will continue to grow our vision and further expand upon the export capabilities that exist for our food producers while also building upon the food tourism opportunities that the region is becoming known for.”
Mr Hoath, a business leader with extensive experience in change management, government and media relations, is set to take the reins.
“David has many years of experience leading high-performing teams through significant change management all while fostering a culture of excellence and delivering profitable and successful outcomes,” Ms Price said.
“His appointment reflects FAN’s commitment to attracting and retaining a dynamic and experienced skills-based board in order to maintain our prominent position in the industry.
“We are thrilled to welcome David as the newly appointed chair of FAN and know that his industry expertise, strategic thinking and outstanding leadership skills will continue to propel us forward into a new era of growth and innovation.”
Mr Hoath, who will take on the role following the AGM in November, said he was “delighted” to be appointed as chair.
“I am am looking forward to enhancing what is already a stellar reputation as we look to build upon and grow the many innovative initiatives that have defined our success to date,” he said.
“I have long admired the work being done by FAN, in the food and agribusiness space, and their unwavering commitment to collaboration, excellence and innovation.
“I wish to thank outgoing chair Jacqui Price for her many years of dedication to FAN and I look forward to working closely with the talented FAN team to further capitalise on opportunities, drive sustainable growth and deliver exceptional value to our members.”
