AHDB appoints Helen Herniman as new CEO
12th November 2025
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board has appointed Helen Herniman as its new chief executive and accounting officer.
Ms Herniman, who will take on the post on 5th January 2026, is a chartered accountant with several years of executive experience, leading organisations in a variety of sectors through growth, turnaround and transformation.
Her career spans the public and private sectors, including the Law Society as chief finance officer and, most recently, the Nursing and Midwifery Council, where she was the acting chief executive officer.
Speaking about her appointment, Ms Herniman said: “I’m delighted to be joining an organisation that has a key role in an industry that produces safe, sustainable and nutritious food.
“My predecessors and the brilliant team at AHDB are making great progress in supporting and championing our world-class farmers and producers, and there is plenty more to come.
“I look forward to working with our experts and the wider industry to continue our mission to unlock the success of British agriculture.”
‘Proven track record of leadership, innovation and service delivery’
AHDB chair Emily Norton said: “Helen’s strategic insight and belief that our greatest strength lies in our people align deeply with the Board’s values and ambition for AHDB.
“She brings a proven track record of leadership, innovation and service delivery in the regulated and private sectors, experience that will be invaluable as we continue to deliver on our sector strategies and for our levy payers.”
The new CEO position is an appointment by the Board of AHDB, led by the chair of the Board, Emily Norton, and supported by DEFRA.
Janet Swadling, interim CEO, will lead the process of a handover in the new year, before leaving AHDB in January.
READ MORE: Graham Wilkinson steps down as CEO of AHDB
READ MORE: AHDB appoints Janet Swadling as interim chief executive
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