The National Farmers Federation has announced the appointment Simon Talbot to the position of CEO.
Talbot, who is currently director of corporate affairs Asia Pacific at Mondelez International, will replace acting CEO Tony Mahar who has served as an interim CEO since Matt Linnegar left the organisation earlier in the year.
In addition to his role at Mondelez, Talbot – who comes from a farming background – has also worked in corporate affairs and sustainability in the areas of mining, forestry, construction and consultancy.
NFF President, Brent Finlay said that over 80 expressions of interest were received for the role but it was Talbot that shone through as the most “outstanding candidate”.
Talbot says that he has a strong passion and connection with the Australia’s agricultural sector, and aims to capitalise on growth opportunities to secure a thriving future for the industry.
“For some time now I’ve been seeing the opportunity in the Australian food and agriculture sector not being fully realised,” Talbot told Queensland Country Life.
“…I want to see a new generation of farmers grasp the land and actually be a thriving generation, not a surviving generation.”
Talbot is due to formally commence his new role on 20 October.