Dairy Australia announces new MD

Posted by Isobel Drake on 6th November 2009

Ian Halliday is set to assume the role of Managing Director at industry service body Dairy Australia.Mr Halliday will commence on 1st January 2010 and comes to Dairy Australia with an impressive reputation in the food industry, Dairy Australia Chairman Max Roberts said.

His career has spanned across the supply chain, including the dairy industry, and features a wide range of management roles in companies including SPC, White Wings, Kraft Foods and KR Castlemaine.

Most recently he was the Chief Executive Officer of Vesco Foods.

Mr Roberts said that Mr Halliday’s background in the food industry means he has a strong understanding of the dairy industry supply chain, the increasing issues facing agriculture and the need for Australian dairy to continue developing sustained competitiveness in the world market.

“Reporting to the Board, Mr Halliday will have responsibility for the strategic direction and leadership of Dairy Australia. He will lead the organisation to deliver programs that add value to all facets of the dairy supply chain,” Roberts said. “Another key aspect of Ian’s role will be the development of strong relationships between industry, research providers, governments and other bodies – nationally and internationally, for the benefit of Australian dairy farmers.”

Mr Roberts also took the opportunity to thank outgoing Managing Director Dr Mike Ginnivan.

“Dr Ginnivan has led Dairy Australia for approximately six years and in that time he has overseen tremendous change and development in the Australian dairy industry.”

“He has helped guide Dairy Australia to provide the best possible support to Australian dairy farmers. We are very grateful for his contribution and leadership and we wish him all the best in his future,” Mr Roberts said.