Welcome our new Chair

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Tanya Pittard as the new Chair of Potatoes Australia Ltd. Tanya is a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of the agricultural sector and a strong commitment to agricultural policy and advocacy. Tanya will assume her role as Chair of Potatoes Australia effective 1st November 2024.

With over two decades of experience in the agricultural sector she brings a wealth of knowledge in government relations, policy advice, management and leadership. Tanya’s remarkable career has seen her develop expertise in agricultural policy, strategic leadership, and advocacy.

Her contribution to the agricultural sector throughout her 25 year career clearly demonstrate her commitment to advancing the agricultural industry and supporting key stakeholders. In addition, Tanya’s expertise and focus on leadership and team management, strategic policy, submissions development and advocacy make her an ideal fit to lead the Potatoes Australia Ltd Board into the future.

In accepting her appointment, Tanya Pittard said “I am honoured to take on the role of Chair of Potatoes Australia. This is a crucial time where a united representative body focusing on growth, sustainability and profitability is needed more than ever in the Australian potato industry.”

Tanya will focus on advancing the organisation’s vision, fostering innovation and growth but also helping to build strong relationships with stakeholders. Working with farmers and industry partners the goal will be to promote the research needs, growth and sustainability of the Australian potato industry. Her leadership will be instrumental in navigating the challenges and opportunities currently facing the industry.

As we welcome Tanya, we also recognise the unwavering dedication and foresight of our interim Chairman, Dr Nigel Crump. Nigel has elevated Potatoes Australia Ltd in the global potato network. His knowledge, passion and commitment have been paramount in steering Potatoes Australia Ltd towards its current success. Nigel led the team to organise a highly successful World Potato Congress in Australia earlier this year, with over 900 delegates from around the world coming together to share and expand their knowledge. Nigel’s contributions hold great significance as we continue to foster collaboration within the global potato community. Nigel is the General Manager of AuSPICA, a Director of World Potato Congress Inc and Co-Deputy Chair of UNECE Specialised Section Seed Potatoes. We are fortunate that Nigel will remain on the Board of Directors of Potatoes Australia Ltd and we are truly grateful for his continued dedication and the continuity it brings to the organisation.