Antony Allen has announced his resignation as CEO of peak industry body Avocados Australia after almost a decade in the role.
Allen joined the industry body in 2002, becoming CEO of the Australian Avocado Growers Federation, the precursor to Avocados Australia. He oversaw the transition to the new group in 2003.
“I have been in the role for nine and a half years and have had an amazing time; the opportunities and people in the avocado industry are truly the best, in Australia and around the world,” Allen told Asiafruit.
“The team approach in the world of avocados is unlike anything I have seen in other fruit and vegetable industries.”
Allen explained he felt it was time for a move, and that he will be heading back into the commercial world.
“Going out at the top of the role is what I always wanted,” he said. “I will miss the role as CEO of such a great industry.”
Under Allen’s hand Avocados Australia has had a strong focus on research and development, and has developed a strong promotional campaign on the domestic market, as well as promoting growth in export markets.
Between 2002 and 2012 the farmgate value of the Australian avocado industry has grown from A$60m to A$215m.
“Antony’s extraordinary vision and leadership guided Avocados Australia to its position as a strong and effective peak industry body, envied by many other industries in horticulture,” said Avocados Australia chairman Jim Kochi in statement.
Allen is also current president of the International Avocado Society and chair of the International Avocado Research Consortium.
He will remain a member of the Avocados Australia board to help transition to a new CEO.
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