Sharpham Cheese managing director, Greg Parsons, has been appointed the new chairman of Food Drink Devon, which represents hundreds of businesses across the county.

The not-for-profit membership organisation, which represents more than 330 food and drink producers, retailers, hospitality venues and related businesses, is focused on raising Devon’s culinary profile.

Greg, who recently set up the South West Growth Hub, a community interest company that aims to facilitate public sector procurement for smaller local food and drink producers, has spent more than 20 years in the diary and food and hospitality industry.

He said: “I am Devon born and bred and am incredibly passionate about the fantastic local produce in this bountiful area of the country.

“Combining that passion with my broad industry experience, I hope, will stand me in good stead to take on the role of chair during such a dynamic time for the organisation and the local food and drink scene.

“The past year and a half has been incredibly challenging for the membership but, with such an outstanding network of  producers, hospitality businesses and retailers in our county, I am confident that the future is incredibly bright and I am thrilled to be able to play a small part in it.”

Greg replaces Barbara King, the former managing director of The Shops at Dartington, who held the reins for five years.

Food Drink Devon’s vice chairman, Mike Young, said: “We are delighted that Greg has agreed to take up the reins and build on all the amazing work that Barbara has done.

“He has a wealth of experience in this industry, having worked across manufacturing, sales and marketing for a range of businesses including some really big brands.”