Experienced fresh produce leader to join topfruit industry body in September ahead of planned leadership transition
Claire Donovan will replace Ali Capper as executive chair of topfruit trade body British Apples & Pears Limited (BAPL), it has been announced.
Donovan will join the organisation on 1 September, working alongside Capper during a planned two-month handover, before formally taking up the role on 4 November. Capper will become the new chair of British Berry Growers.
Donovan’s appointment follows an extensive search and selection process involving several high-calibre candidates.
The board unanimously concluded that Donovan’s “breadth of experience, strategic leadership and deep understanding of the fresh produce sector” made her the right candidate to lead BAPL through its next phase of development.
She brings extensive experience across the fresh produce supply chain, spanning commercial leadership, technical standards, grower engagement and industry representation.
She is a former technical director at G’s and SHP Group, a former senior agronomist at M&S, and most recently the CEO of the Modern Slavery Intelligence Network (MSIN).
Her experience also extends beyond horticulture into board leadership and public policy. As a board director of the Welsh Rugby Union, she has helped steer organisational change in one of Wales’ highest-profile membership organisations, while her work in horticulture has included industry advocacy and contributing to the government working group that led to the Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004.
“Together, these experiences give her a rare combination of commercial, governance, advocacy and leadership skills to champion the interests of British apple and pear growers,” BAPL said.
The organisation’s vice-chair James Simpson, who is managing director of major apple producer Adrian Scripps, added that Donovan “combines commercial insight with a genuine commitment to British horticulture and has the credibility, relationships and leadership skills to help BAPL continue to champion the interests of British apple and pear growers”.
Donovan herself said: “BAPL has become a respected and influential voice for growers, and I look forward to working with members, the board, retailers, government and the wider industry to build on that success and help create a positive future for British apples and pears.”
“The opportunity to work alongside Ali during the transition is invaluable. She leaves the organisation in a strong position, and I look forward to building on the excellent foundations she and the Board have created.”
Capper added: “It has been an enormous privilege to serve as executive chair of British Apples & Pears over the past eight years.
“Together, we have strengthened BAPL’s voice with government, retailers and across the industry, while ensuring growers are at the heart of everything we do.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved, and I know Claire is an excellent appointment. Her experience, knowledge and leadership qualities make her ideally placed to lead BAPL through its next chapter, and I look forward to working closely with her over the coming weeks to ensure a smooth transition.”
