Commenting on her appointment, Discombe said: “Having first worked in the industry at the age of 14 in a wonderful butcher’s shop, I am extremely touched and very proud after 33 years in the industry to have been asked to be BDCI Festival chairman.
“The charity means so very much to me and I intend to spend my year raising as much awareness, and of course funds, as I possibly can.”
Discombe joined Finnebrogue in 2011 and has more than 30 years’ experience in the meat sector. She has held a number of senior roles across the industry, including technical director at meat processor Vion and technical account manager at ABP.
‘Infectious enthusiasm’
BDCI treasurer Ted Hoefling welcomed Discombe as the new Festival Dinner chair, commending her on her “infectious enthusiasm and passion for the industry”.
“Many thanks go to Jo’s predecessor, Chris Aldersley, for his all hard work making the recent Festival Dinner such a success both in terms of fundraising, but also a highly entertaining and fun evening,” added Hoefling.
The BDCI provides support for anyone in the UK and the Republic of Ireland who has been connected with the meat trade, as well as their widows/widowers or dependents.
Help is available, for those who maybe struggling to cope, for a variety of needs including paying bills, repairs to the home, mobility equipment and nursing home fees. BDCI also offer bursaries for students to support the future of the industry.