City Food & Drink Lecture appoints new chair
Allan Wilkinson is set to chair the 2024 City Food & Drink Lecture, with the event approaching its 23rd year.
Wilkinson takes over from John Giles, who previously served as the chair for six years. Wilkinson said that he aims to “build upon the efforts made during Giles’ leadership” using his previous experience as head of agrifoods at HSBC UK as a starting point.
He is part of various industry bodies, is a trustee of the Royal Countryside Fund and is a Liveryman of The Worshipful Company of Farmers.
According to City Food & Drink, the role of the chair involves “embracing the strong legacy and heritage of the event, which has consistently drawn over 600 attendees”.
Wilkinson said: “It is a great honour and privilege to assume the role of chair for the prestigious City Food & Drink Lecture at the Guildhall in London.
“This annual event has earned a commendable reputation over the years for its insightful thought leadership, featuring keynote speakers and panels addressing key issues in the UK food and drink sector. The event, held in the heart of London, attracts influential figures from the sector, including our valued sponsors.
“I express deep gratitude to John Giles for his contributions as the previous Chair and eagerly anticipate upholding the respected traditions of the City Food & Drink Lecture in the years to come.”
The event, set for Monday 11th March 2024, is organised jointly by eight of the City of London livery companies involved in the agriculture, food and drink sectors: the Worshipful Companies of Bakers, Butchers, Cooks, Distillers, Farmers, Fishmongers, Fruiterers and Poulters.
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