An industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience in fresh produce management, Clay spent most of his career with G’s Group, having entered the firm’s graduate scheme back in June 2000.
Clay held a number of senior positions within the firm, working his way up to managing director of the group’s onion division before leaving in 2022.
New responsibilities
His new role with Greenvale will see Clay lead the drive to increase the business’s own growing operations and oversee the procurement of fresh potatoes for the group’s two packing sites.
Commenting on his appointment, Clay said: “This opportunity is a testament to the team's focus on ensuring a resilient, long-term pipeline of fresh potatoes. I am looking forward to working with our grower network to navigate the challenges that present themselves in the industry, while seeking to scale operations and provide opportunities for growth.”
Greenvale is one of the UK’s largest growers and suppliers of fresh, processing and organic potatoes. The company operates two processing sites in Floods Ferry, Cambridgeshire and Duns on the Scottish Borders and hires more than 360 people.
‘The future of the potato sector’
Greenvale managing director David Rankin added: “Rick is a great fit for Greenvale. His expertise and understanding of our offering uniquely position him to help, not just with our growth, but our role in the future and sustainability of the potato sector as a whole.”
As well as supplying to retailers and manufacturers, Greenvale has also launched its own branded proposition, Golden Kings.
Meanwhile, the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers has appointed industry veteran Dr Jason Aldiss as its new leader, following to departure of Norman Bagley from the role.
Aldiss joins the organisation in the newly created role of executive director, effective January 2025. He will work alongside Bagley as he transitions away from the role.
