Promotion of Kelly Northcroft to managing director comes alongside appointment of Dave Booth as client manager (open field crops)
Rijk Zwaan UK has appointed Kelly Northcroft as its new MD following a decade-long tenure at the company.
Northcroft steps up from her role as client manager (chain), where she built strong relationships across the UK vegetable supply chain while driving new business development and gathering market insights.
According to the company, she acted as a key link between clients and colleagues, ensuring tailored solutions and long-term partnerships that supported both commercial growth and innovation.
In her new position, Northcroft will lead strategic partnerships and drive the development of long-term client strategies.
“With deep commercial insight and a strong understanding of the UK horticultural landscape and global market dynamics, Northcroft is well-positioned to guide the company into its next phase of growth,” said Rijk Zwaan UK.
Her remit includes overseeing UK operations, shaping commercial strategy, and fostering innovation to ensure continued value for growers, retailers, and partners.
Jayne Copeland will continue to oversee finance and HR operations.
Another major appointment comes in the form of Dave Booth who has become client manager (open field crops).
Booth brings a strong academic and practical foundation to the role. He studied Entomology at Harper Adams University and completed a PhD at the University of Birmingham, where he collaborated on research projects that sparked his passion for fresh produce.
Most recently, Booth served as a fresh produce technologist at Manor Fresh, focusing on brassicas and leafy salads.
“Dave’s appointment reinforces our commitment to UK growers,” said Northcroft. “His expertise and enthusiasm will be instrumental in driving innovation and strengthening relationships across the open field crops sector.”
Booth will collaborate closely with the commercial team to support trials, introduce new varieties, and build long-term partnerships with growers across the UK.
The company said his appointment “reflects Rijk Zwaan’s ongoing commitment to supporting UK agriculture with expert-led, customer-focused service”.
