NIAB appoints new head of agronomy services

Crop science organisation NIAB has appointed Mark Fletcher as its head of agronomy services – a new role within the company.

Dr Fletcher will lead NIAB’s team of 20 agronomists and consultants who deliver technical and consultancy services across the country. He previously led Agovista’s northern agronomy team for seven years.

NIAB’s wide-ranging research programme includes member-funded agronomy trials. In his new role, Dr Fletcher will translate trial results into practical on-farm advice to support productive, resilient and regenerative farming methods.

Agronomic issues

He is also the primary contact for NIAB’s external communications relating to strategic agronomic issues, alongside dealing with technical enquiries and production of the NIAB’s portfolio of agronomy publications available to subscribing members.

NIAB commercial services director Nick Watson said: “It’s great news that someone of Mark’s calibre and ability is joining NIAB; our farmer members will benefit enormously from his experience, skills and knowledge.

“He will be a great asset, not only to our regional agronomy team, but to the whole organisation, in the development and communication of our agronomic direction and services offered to all our members and customers.”

Mixed farm

Originally from a mixed family farm in Northern Ireland, Dr Fletcher studied at Queens University of Belfast and Reading University. As well as Agrovista, he has worked for British Polythene Industries, Syngenta, Westland Horticulture and Agrii.

Experienced in advising a range of clients about combinable crops, potatoes, vegetables and fruit, Dr Fletcher’s research interests include plant physiology, nutrition and disease management.

Describing it as a pivotal time for agriculture, he said: “NIAB is unique in the UK in its capability to connect plant science with good agronomy to ensure that the benefits of research are realised on farm.

“The changes that will occur in agriculture in crops and cropping will require an in-depth knowledge and understanding that NIAB’s team is well placed to answer, for its members and the wider industry.”