Withers quits as Scots food and drink chief

JAMES Withers has been hailed for his role in transforming Scotland Food & Drink as it was announced he is to step down as chief executive of the industry body later this year.

Mr Withers, who has led the producers’ group for more than a decade, will depart in August, remaining with the organisation to support its search for a successor. He has still to decide what his next move will be.

Lucinda Brucegardyne, chair of Scotland Food & Drink, said: “James has made a transformational contribution to our organisation and his impact has been felt across the food and drink sector in Scotland.

“When James joined us in 2011, Scotland Food & Drink was still in its infancy and the industry wasn’t always spoken of as a Scottish success story. Later this year when James departs, his successor will inherit a strong, well-established organisation, a talented staff body and a sector critical to the future of Scotland’s economy and communities.

“The board and staff will be very sad to see James depart, but we understand his decision and are very pleased he has agreed to stay and work closely with myself and the board to manage the transition.”

Mr Withers has been a high-profile campaigner for the food and drink industry as it has faced major challenges, such as Brexit and the pandemic, in recent years.

He said: “It has been a huge privilege to be in this role for over a decade. That it has gone in a flash must be a good sign.

“It has been a very difficult decision to step down; I still consider it one of the best jobs in the country. However, it is exciting that someone else will soon have the opportunity to embrace it.

“It’s never easy to know when the right time is to step down. But ahead of the development of a new industry strategy towards the end of the year, and with a strong foundation in place, this feels right. My successor will inherit an incredibly talented group of staff and committed partners.