The recruitment process was completed in advance of the business opening its new “state-of-the-art” feed mill and distribution centre, which cost more than £20m.
Richardson has extensive experience within the agri, retail, equine, leisure and fuel sectors and previously held the roles of managing director and CEO at two separate agri supply companies.
Set to join the firm at the beginning of March, Richardson’s arrival matches up with the new facility preparing to go into production. Waterloo House, as it has been named, is located on the Dalton Industrial Park in North Yorkshire and is set to more than double production capacity by an additional 200,000 tonnes.
The appointment will bolster I’Anson’s senior management team and allows director Will I’Anson, who previously fulfilled the role, to focus on procurement as the business grows.
Richardson has ‘long-admired’ I’Anson
“I have spent my working life in the animal feed and agri business industry, and this ground-breaking development by I’Anson’s is one of the most exciting and forward-looking initiatives I have ever seen in the sector,” Richardson said.
“With its latest technology and location, this investment will bring further serious advantages to its growing farm customers and business partners. I have long known and admired the business, not just for the quality of its products, but for the values it has, its commitment to the farming industry and its contribution to the wider rural economy.”
Designed and constructed by Dutch milling industry specialists Ottevanger, Waterloo House will complement the firm’s existing facility at Masham and is the largest financial investment in the more than 120-year history of the company.
Richardson said that arriving in time for the start of production at the new site was particularly appealing.
He continued: “The new mill will deliver real benefits for customers, providing security of supply, the ability to meet growing demand and the development of new products to mention just a few. Increased production will also require more raw materials providing additional opportunities for arable farmers.”
‘Brings a wealth of industry experience’
Meanwhile, I’Anson managing director Sarah Richardson commented: “The role of commercial director is vital in ensuring we capitalise on the significant investment we have made in developing the new mill. The search to find the right individual has been long and thorough but we are delighted to have attracted someone of Andrew’s undoubted calibre.
“He not only brings a wealth of industry experience and expertise but also the ideas and the ambition to help take the business on its next stage of growth. Andrew is passionate about building and developing teams so I am sure he will be an enormous support to the talented and dedicated people we have in the business.”
In other news, ingredients provider Ohly has released its five key trends to watch during 2024 from across the pet food and animal feed production sector.