The British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) has appointed Tom Finn, chief executive of Kepak Meat Division UK, as its new president for a two-year term.
Finn takes over from Tom Kirwan of ABP, who completed four years in the role. The BMPA praised Kirwan for raising the organisation’s profile and advocating for the interests of the UK meat sector.
The leadership change was announced at the association’s annual general meeting. Finn will build on Kirwan’s work by promoting the sector’s priorities and encouraging closer cooperation throughout the food supply chain, as food and beverage industry trends continue to reshape the market.
Finn has worked for Kepak for three decades, holding a range of operational and commercial positions before becoming chief executive of its UK meat division in 2024. With roots in farming, he brings “extensive experience” of the beef and lamb supply chain, as well as insight into wider food manufacturing trends and food distribution trends.
Commenting on his appointment, Finn said: “Food security is national security. From livestock farmers through to processors and retailers, we are one connected supply chain. Profitable farming, a competitive processing sector and a reliable supply of high-quality food for consumers are inseparable.
“Working with industry and Government, we need to create the conditions for long-term investment, greater productivity and confidence in British food production. I look forward to playing my part as we build on the progress already made and make the case for our industry’s contribution to the country’s security, economy and rural communities.”
The BMPA said Finn would place resilience and competitiveness at the centre of his presidency. His priorities will reflect the principle that food security represents national security, with farmers, processors and retailers operating as interconnected elements of essential national infrastructure.
His agenda will also sit alongside wider developments in food processing technology, food and drink industry innovation, food and drink sustainability, food and drink regulations, food and drink packaging, food and drink marketing and changing food and drink consumer trends.
BMPA chief executive John Powell added: “We are delighted to welcome Tom Finn as president of BMPA. His experience and understanding of the whole supply chain will be invaluable as we continue to build relationships across the supply chain, develop our new vision and strategy for the coming three to five years with members, and take forward our work with Government.
“We also owe a considerable debt of thanks to Tom Kirwan for his leadership over the past four years. Building on that foundation, our focus is on making practical progress with the challenges the industry is facing: securing livestock supply, improving competitiveness and creating the conditions for investment. Tom Finn’s collaborative approach will help us bring the industry together around those shared priorities.”
