He took on his current role in 2010, having previously being company secretary for 12 years.
Bates said he felt now was the right time to move on, having worked in a number of senior positions for the dairy industry’s representative body.
‘Huge privilege’
“It has been a huge privilege to serve the interests of one the UK’s great industries. I am proud to have been closely involved in many initiatives and campaigns that have benefited both dairy companies and dairy farmers.”
Billy Keane, chairman of Dairy UK, said: “Everyone at Dairy UK and across the industry is acutely aware of the enormous contribution Simon has made over the years on behalf of dairy industry. He has been particularly instrumental in ensuring the industry has had an effective representative body.”