RPG Strengthens Leadership for Greater Impact

Mark Lumsdon-Taylor becomes RPG’s first President

The UK agricultural sector continues to navigate significant challenges arising from economic conditions, evolving public policy, and international dynamics. In response, Rural Policy is evolving to provide the industry with the strategic support it needs to adapt and thrive in an era of shocks. To enhance its impact in the coming years, Rural Policy Group is strengthening its governance structure, ensuring the organisation is well-positioned to address the rapid changes shaping the agrifood industry.

Founded in 2019 by Mark Lumsdon-Taylor, RPG has grown into a highly influential voice for rural businesses, particularly during the exceptional challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, invasion of Ukraine, Brexit and the economic disruption following the Truss Prime Ministership. Under Lumsdon-Taylor’s visionary leadership as Chairman, RPG pioneered the first All-Party Parliamentary Group dedicated to advocating for fairness in the food supply chain, with now-Minister Daniel Zeichner as Chair.

The organisation also developed an innovative framework to value agricultural counties as FTSE 100 companies, demonstrating the economic, social and environmental significance of farming to policymakers in Parliament. The valuations form the backbone of the annual Sustainable Food Report, a publication which prompts government to give more consideration to agrifood in policy decisions and outlines the major challenges facing the rural economy.

Additionally, RPG has fostered a groundbreaking ‘triple helix’ approach to problemsolving and calling for change. It unites voices from industry, policy, and academia to drive meaningful change through shared dialogue and ambitions.

As RPG enters its next phase of development, we are delighted to announce that after six years of dedicated leadership, Mark Lumsdon-Taylor will become RPG’s first President. In this capacity, he will continue to be an influential figurehead, guiding RPG’s strategic direction and ensuring its ongoing success in championing rural industries. His enduring commitment and expertise will be instrumental in shaping the future of agricultural policy and support in the UK. Mark continues to combine his policy work and advocating for sustainable food supply chains with his role at MHA, the UK member of Baker Tilly International as Head of Sustainability ESG and Partner with a special interest in agribusiness and food manufacturing. 

RPG welcomes a new Co-Opted Advisor for Industry

Rural Policy Group (RPG) is pleased to welcome Paul Knights to the board, joining Founder and President Mark Lumsdon-Taylor and Executive Director Katie Tucker. Paul’s extensive expertise in the fresh produce industry, spanning three decades, makes him a valuable addition to RPG’s leadership team.

As Founder and Director of Produce Plus, Paul has built a highly successful global produce distribution and marketing company. Under his leadership, Produce Plus has not only established a robust import supply chain but has also played a key role in expanding international markets for British exporters. His innovative approach has enabled UK producers to offset the decline in EU trade post-Brexit by identifying and developing new markets while introducing high-value products that command premium pricing.

Paul’s appointment further strengthens RPG’s strategic leadership, reinforcing our commitment to supporting rural industries through forward-thinking policy, industry collaboration, and market-driven innovation. We look forward to the expertise and insight he will bring to the organisation as we continue our mission to champion a thriving and resilient agrifood sector.

Two more roles to strengthen impact

To further enhance the leadership and delivery capacity of Rural Policy Group, we are seeking a Chairman and a Non-Executive Director to serve as the Co-Opted Advisor for Policy. These voluntary roles present an opportunity to contribute to RPG’s mission of driving positive change within the agrifood sector.

As we look ahead to 2025, RPG is deepening its engagement in Parliament while expanding its business support programme to benefit all parts of the agrifood supply chain. Our core purpose remains steadfast: enhancing the financial and environmental sustainability of the agrifood value chain. Through a dual focus on business-driven initiatives and public affairs, we continue to support agriculture, food and farming in navigating challenges and seizing new opportunities for growth and innovation.

If you have a strong background in the agrifood industry or sustainable food systems and are passionate about securing the future of British food and farming, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to RPG’s mission, influence policy, and shape the food system for the next generation. Expressions of interest can be sent to katie@ruralpolicygroup.com.

With this strengthened governance structure and an unwavering commitment to the sector, RPG is poised to build on its successes and drive meaningful progress for the agrifood value chain and allied industries.