BEIC announces significant executive changes

After spending over 23 years as Chief Executive of the British Egg Industry Council, leading the British egg industry through some of its most successful and challenging periods, Mark Williams will be taking on the role of Chairman of the BEIC, replacing Andrew Joret who is retiring after 11 years at the helm. 

Mark Williams will assume the role of Chairman from 6 December. During his tenure as Chief Executive, Williams has played a pivotal role in protecting the interests of the British egg industry and driving forward the continued evolution of the British Lion Code of Practice, helping to cement the UK’s reputation for producing the safest eggs in the world.  

Andrew Joret will retire as Chairman, a role he has held since 2012, during which time he has guided the organisation and its members with his leadership and deep understanding of the industry. 
 
Gary Ford, a highly accomplished and experienced industry professional, will join the BEIC on 14 August, succeeding Mark Williams as Chief Executive following a transition period. Chairman, Andrew Joret, will continue as Interim Chairman during the changeover period.
 
Having grown up with a farming background, Gary Ford joins following 14 years at the NFU where he has worked across various sectors, including poultry meat and eggs, bringing to the role a broad understanding of its requirements and the needs of BEIC members.
 
Andrew Joret says: “Gary Ford brings with him a wealth of expertise and experience, to ensure that the BEIC can continue to represent the interests of the British egg industry.  

“As Chairman, Mark Williams’ continued contribution will be invaluable, providing insights, guidance and strategic direction, and we are delighted that he has agreed to stay on to ensure a seamless transition and strong direction for the industry. Mark’s decision to retire as Chief Executive will also enable him to spend more time with his family and travelling.” 

Mark Williams says: “Andrew Joret has been a true servant and champion for the British egg industry, both in his long-held role at the BEIC and his previous roles in the sector. His exemplary leadership and dedicated service in advocating for the industry has been unwavering.  

“Andrew has overseen numerous milestone achievements, breaking down potential barriers to growing egg consumption, most significantly the FSA’s approval for British Lion eggs to be eaten runny by vulnerable groups. 

“I would like to thank Andrew for his exceptional contribution and tireless effort and we extend our best wishes for his well-deserved retirement in a few months.”
 
The BEIC is the inter-professional trade organisation that represents the UK egg industry. Set up in 1986, its members are the 11 major organisations concerned with the egg industry: British Egg Association (BEA), British Egg Products Association (BEPA), British Free Range Egg Producers’ Association (BFREPA), National Egg Marketing Association Limited (NEMAL), National Farmers Union of England and Wales (NFU), NFU Scotland (NFUS), Northern Ireland Poultry Federation (NIPF), Pullet Hatcheries Association (PHA), Pullet Rearers Association (PRA), Scottish Egg Producer Retailers’ Association (SEPRA), Ulster Farmers Union (UFU). The BEIC is funded by subscriptions from egg packers and producers who produce more than 90% of the UK’s eggs. BEIC subscribers market British Lion Quality eggs.