Current chair Julie Bird shares plans to retire from the role at the 2026 Annual General Meeting in November transtioning the leadership to deputy chair John Said
The Hort Innovation board has confirmed a planned transition in leadership, with chair Julie Bird to retire from the role at the 2026 Annual General Meeting in November. Following the AGM, deputy chair John Said has been scheduled to assume the role of chair, subject to formal appointment by the board.
In a release announcing the change, the board said the transition reflected strong governance and deliberate succession planning. Adding that it will ensure a smooth transition in board leadership as the organisation completes the current phase of its strategy and prepares for the next.
After what will be six years as chair, Bird has overseen a period of strengthened governance, strategic clarity and organisational maturity, the board said in the release. She has helped position Hort Innovation to deliver with confidence now and into the future.
Bird said the transition was a natural and considered step.
“It has been a privilege to serve as chair of Hort Innovation for to the past five and a half years, working alongside a committed board, executive team and dedicated people who support Australian horticulture,” she said. “Hort Innovation is well positioned, with a clear strategy, strong foundations and a continued focus on delivering for growers. I remain fully committed to working with the board and management to deliver the strategic outcomes identified in our current strategic plan, while ensuring the organisation is well placed for its next phase.”
Said acknowledged Bird’s contribution and the continuity the planned transition will provide.
“Julie has played a pivotal role in strengthening Hort Innovation as a contemporary, trusted organisation with a clear focus on growers and industry outcomes,” Said commented.
He said the planned transition ensured stability as the organisation completes its current strategy and prepares for the next phase.
With more than three decades in horticulture, Said brings deep grower insight, commercial leadership and a strong understanding of global supply chains. He is a founder of a national vegetable business supplying major retailers and export markets, an understands both the practical realities facing growers and the commercial environment in which the industry operates. He has served on a range of national and international industry boards and has worked closely with the Hort Innovation board as a director and deputy chair, providing continuity and deep familiarity with the organisation’s strategy and governance.
Reflecting on his long‑standing connection to the industry, Said commented:
“Horticulture has shaped my career and my life, and my commitment to this industry is unwavering. I care deeply about ensuring growers have access to world‑class research, strong governance and leadership that delivers real, practical outcomes. I’m proud to continue serving Australian horticulture and to work alongside the Board and management to help position the industry for a more viable, prosperous future.”
