MDS is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Willgoss as its new Chair, following the planned departure of Christine Tacon, who steps down after nine years of dedicated service.
During her tenure, Christine has overseen a period of significant growth and transformation for MDS, strengthening the organisation’s position as a leading provider of leadership and management training in the food and fresh produce industry. Under her guidance, MDS has continued to evolve its governance, broaden its membership base and deepen its impact in developing the next generation of industry leaders.
Reflecting on her time as Chair, Christine said:
“It has been an absolute privilege to serve as Chair of MDS for the past nine years. The organisation’s mission to nurture and develop the future leaders of the food and farming industry has never been more important, and I am immensely proud of the increased resilience of the business, the diversity and capability of the trainees and the strength of its membership. I am confident that Paul will bring a fresh perspective and energy to the role and that MDS will continue to go from strength to strength under his leadership.”
Paul Willgoss, who will formally take up the position in October 2025, brings with him extensive industry knowledge having been at M&S for 32 years, the last 17 as technical director. More recently he has been instrumental in leading an industry-wide approach to tackling modern slavery, working with John Shropshire, coincidentally one of the founders of MDS back in 1986. Paul has a strong record of industry leadership. Known for his collaborative and balanced approach, he is well placed to guide MDS on the next steps of its journey.
Commenting on his appointment, Paul said:
“I’m truly delighted to be joining MDS, a great business which plays a crucial role in the development and support of future leaders in the food and farming industry. It is a real honour to be part of this ongoing success story as Chair.”
The MDS Board expressed its gratitude to Christine for her outstanding leadership and long-standing commitment to the organisation and warmly welcomed Paul’s appointment. His experience and industry network are expected to complement the MDS team’s operational strengths, providing the right balance of challenge, support and strategic insight as the organisation continues to grow.
Since its formation 38 years ago, MDS has grown from its founding membership of three grower businesses to 68 member companies across the agrifood, fresh produce and food retail sectors. Members include Aldi, Pepsico, Riverford Organics and BASF.
Under Christine’s leadership, MDS has flourished. Trainee numbers have grown from 32 to over 100 annually, and membership has nearly doubled – from 36 to 68 companies.
MDS trainees spend up to two years and four placements in member companies while completing an industry specific qualification in leadership and management.