Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) CEO Nick Pyke has announced plans to step down from the role in the next 12 months. Mr Pyke, who has led FAR since it was formed in 1995, says that making the decision to leave was not easy, but that the time is right.
“Following a positive external review in 2016 and our recent successful referendum result, I am able to leave, confident in the knowledge that FAR is strong, positive and well-focused with strong support from its grower base and industry partners.
“I came to FAR for two years and ended up staying for 22 years! I think that is an indication of just how much I have enjoyed the role. I have loved working with a great team dedicated to research and extension and alongside some of the best farmers in the world, and hope to maintain contact with them through continued involvement in some aspects of the industry.”
FAR Chair David Birkett says Mr Pyke will be greatly missed and difficult to replace.
“However, we are fortunate that his decision to leave has been well planned, allowing plenty of time for the Board to identify a suitable replacement and for Nick to carry out a well-managed handover. He won’t just be walking out the door, it will be more of a transition process. He will remain in the job until a new appointment is made, and after that will continue on in specific project-based roles for a period of time. We expect him to be involved with FAR for at least the next 12 months.
“In the meantime, it will be business as usual. Last year’s external review identified that FAR is in good shape in terms of governance, management and research and extension strategy.”