Director general of the Food and Drink Federation (FDF), Melanie Leech, is stepping down after more than nine years and will now head up the British Property Federation.
Leech, who has held the post since August 2005, said she is “incredibly proud” of what the industry body has achieved during campaigns such as 2020 Growth Vision and Ingredients for Success.
“I have been privileged to lead FDF for the last nine years and am incredibly proud of what we have achieved in that time,” she said.
'The time is now right for me to move on to a new challenge and I am excited about the opportunity to represent another major economic powerhouse sector for the UK economy.”
Richard Evans, FDF president, said: “Melanie has made a significant contribution to furthering the industry’s interests during her time at FDF. She has been responsible for a number of key campaigns and worked tirelessly to make sure members are well represented in the key debates affecting our sector.
“She is highly regarded both by members and our stakeholders and has been a huge support to me and my predecessors in the role of president. We wish her well for her new role.”
FDF, which is the industry body for the food and drink manufacturing industry, said it has commenced the search for a new director general.