Waitrose director scoops pig industry’s David Black award
Waitrose buying director Heather Jenkins has scooped the prestigious pig industry accolade, the David Black Award.
Ms Jenkins was presented with the award by DEFRA minister David Heath at the House of Lords for her services to the British pig industry.
The former Harper Adams student is currently director of buying for meat, poultry, fish, frozen food and dairy, and director of agriculture strategy for Waitrose. She is responsible for setting strategy and for the commercial objectives to deliver the best protein offer for Waitrose customers.
Ms Jenkins has a wealth of experience in her field and has been instrumental in establishing a dedicated Waitrose supply chain. During her time at Waitrose, she has developed the most comprehensive and diverse producer group structure in Europe, with more than 30 separate categories.
BPEX Chairman Stewart Houston said: “Ms Jenkins has transformed British pork and pork products into sustainable, high-quality, aspirational food. She has had an outstanding effect on British livestock production.
“Her support for British pig farming at times of severe volatility in input costs and finished pig prices has been a stabilising influence at times of uncertainty. She is a worthy winner of this year’s David Black award.”
Read more about past David Black Award winners