The AF Group has appointed Keith Snape to oversee the growth of its livestock feed business.
Mr Snape takes up the newly created role of feed general manager and brings over 30 years’ experience working in the agricultural industry for some of its biggest names.
He began his career working on his family’s dairy farm in the 1980s, turning it into one of the best performing operations in the country, before moving on to work for the likes of KW Alternative Feeds, Countrywide Farmers, and ForFarmers.
Mr Snape will be based in AF’s new Midlands office, due to open later in the year. He is tasked with giving the purchasing group’s members an improved livestock feed service and improving the business’s reach across the country.
He said: “I am delighted to join AF at an exciting time in its development and look forward to building on the positive relationships currently enjoyed with members and suppliers.
“It’s essential that we provide a strong portfolio of products at a competitive price, adding value to member businesses and improving their competitiveness.
“The focus will be on communication and I’m keen to engage with members on a one-to-one basis and build confidence in AF’s ability to deliver. Such a pro-active approach is vital if we are to have a full understanding of member needs and requirements. It’s important we provide clarity on what we can offer.
“I’m also committed to building trusted partnerships with our suppliers too. It’s imperative that we strengthen strategic relationships so that we can provide members with the best deals and service levels.”
AF Group chief executive Jon Duffy said: “We’re delighted to welcome Keith to AF. He has expert knowledge of the feed business and its supply chain gained from a working life spent either working in the agri-industry or on farm.
“This newly created role is important in helping grow our business on behalf of our members, enabling AF to provide an improved livestock feed service that covers the length and breadth of the country.
“We are committed to growing this area of our business and we believe Keith is best placed to help improve our competitiveness among livestock farmers and strengthen relationships with our suppliers.”