Kirke has over 26 years’ experience in FMCG in the US and UK and will look to drive commercial expansion

 

Chris Kirke was appointed as Fischer Farms wants to expand the range of crops it grows

Chris Kirke was appointed as CEO as Fischer Farms looks to expand the range of crops it grows

Vertical farming business Fischer Farms has named former Moy Park boss Chris Kirke as its new CEO.

The appointment comes as the producer continues to scale and looks to expand its production from leafy greens to soft fruit, rice, wheat, soy and peas.

Kirke had been the CEO of poultry producer Moy Park for the past six years and has over 26 years’ experience in the FMCG market of the US and the UK.

He also spent over a decade with Greencore USA, as managing director and then CEO, producing convenience foods for some of the country’s largest retailers and brands.

Fischer Farms said Kirke will manage the day-to-day operations of the business, with a focus on its strategic direction. He will also play a key role in nurturing relationships with existing and new customers.

Meanwhile, company founder Tristan Fischer will move into the Group CEO role, maintaining his position as ”the visionary of the company” and driving global expansion. He will focus on future activities, including innovation and R&D, as well as overseeing brand and culture development.

Fischer will work closely with both Kirke and company chairman John Stapleton to grow the existing Fischer Farms business, as well as expanding opportunities with Fischer Farms Foods and Fischer Farms Technology.

Kirke said: “Tristan and the team have established an innovative, forward-thinking business and I am very much looking forward to bringing my knowledge and expertise to Fischer Farms, to drive commercial growth and expansion.

“Vertical farming offers real promise when it comes to creating a more sustainable food supply chain, delivering high-quality fresh produce, with minimal impact on the planet.”

Fischer added: “Chris’ knowledge and experience of the food sector, particularly in the US, will be invaluable as we continue to scale up and attract more commercial partners in the coming months…

“Our vertical farming technology significantly reduces water usage, eliminates the need for pesticides, and minimises transportation emissions by enabling local production.

“This approach not only ensures fresher, healthier produce for our customers, but also aligns with the values of environmentally conscious consumers and socially responsible investors.”

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