Key Qualifications/Experience:

• Agriculture and Livestock:  More than 30 years of value chain expertise in the Agri-Food sector, including technical and economic issues, and with a particular focus on the livestock sector.  Innovative developer of new production and extension technologies in an EU and International context. Has considerable experience managing multi-annual agricultural projects in Ireland and Internationally.  Holds a doctorate in Dairy Science from National University of Ireland, as well as a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Agricultural Science from University College Dublin, in Ireland.

• Research and Extension: Recognised researcher with an extensive record of publications in refereed/technical journals.  Significant agricultural production research and development expertise gained in temperate and tropical climatic regions.  Extensive experience managing research and development departments at both the Centre and Divisional level, and has in-depth knowledge on integrating research, extension and farmer education. Considerable experience with commercial farm extension/advisory services (FAS), and in the preparation of business plans for Agri-Food businesses and for farmers.

• Forage Management and Livestock from Forage Based Production Systems:Over 20 years’ experience in the development of pasture based livestock production systems in Ireland. Experience in pasture agronomy as well as on the development of livestock production systems where up to 90% of the feed of animals comes from pasture. A significant component of the work involved the extension of best practice in relation to pasture management onto farms.

• Management and Strategy:  Skilled leader with experience managing large teams of research, technical and administration staff and budgets up to €40M/year.  Successfully delivered and implemented strategic/operating plans across multiple business units. Considerable experience in managing large projects and budgets as well as serving on the boards of both public and private institutions.  Holds an MBA from Ireland and an Advanced Professional Diploma in Development Leadership from the UK.

• Capacity Building:  Track record of building the capacity of government departments and organisations in the Agri-Food sector.  Able to quickly assess capacity and analyse knowledge management requirements in international settings, along with the capacity to formulate and implement improved operational and knowledge management structures. Manage change in complex work environments.

• Working in International Context: Worked abroad for extended periods (Cornell University, International Livestock Research Institute ILRI (Ethiopia) and in Denmark) as well many visits to European countries, Australia and New Zealand. World Bank consultancies in Russia, Africa and South America.