Commodity trading manager Owen Cligg is to retire after 15 years at farmer-owned cooperative United Oilseeds
During his time with the company, Mr Cligg has overseen the trading of some 7.5m tonnes of combinable crops – including peas, beans, linseed, oats and rye – as well as oilseed rape.
After joining United Oilseeds in 2009, he was instrumental in shaping and advancing the cooperative’s trading network and crafting its business strategy in a way that benefits its farmer members.
Working for growers
Mr Cligg said: “It’s been an honour and pleasure to serve farmers across the UK for the past 15 years on behalf of United Oilseeds. Naturally, it will feel a little strange leaving work after so many years, but there’s plenty on my to-do list.”
He added: “I’m hoping to get more involved in local history, which has been a passion of mine for a while – and I’m particularly looking forward to enjoying the delights of South America with my Chilean wife.”
United Oilseeds managing director James Warner said: “Owen’s departure leaves a noticeable void in our team. His immense contributions to our cooperative extend far beyond his expertise in trading.
“We will sorely miss his witty personality and unique sense of humour, which have left an indelible mark on all who have had the pleasure of working with him. We all wish Owen a very happy and well-deserved retirement.”
Nick Hobson, who joined United Oilseeds this spring, is stepping into the role of commodity trading manager. An experienced trader, he worked for Cargill before co-founding the biofuels brokerage Sun Commodities.
Mr Hobson sold the business in 2014. He has since split his time between managing his consultancy, establishing trading and brokerage enterprises in Geneva, and raising his young family.
