Omsco appoints COO Martyn Anthony to CEO following structural changes

British organic dairy cooperative Omsco has promoted its chief operating officer, Martyn Anthony, to the role of chief executive officer, effective 1 April.

Martyn Anthony

The co-op says it will combine the roles of COO and CEO to create a more “operationally focused” chief executive position.

Anthony will replace current CEO David Williams, who is leaving to establish his own strategic consultancy business and will continue to provide advice to the company’s board. Williams became Omsco’s first CEO in April 2021 after leaving his position as global head of finance, members, milk and trading at Arla Foods.

Meanwhile, Anthony joined the company in April last year as COO. He also holds several senior operational and commercial roles in the food processing industry.

Neil Kennedy, chairman of Omsco said: “The board and management team have been focused on stabilising the business; reviewing and streamlining its activities and creating a long-term strategy.  Our focus is now on driving forward this strategy and deliver on our goal of achieving operational and commercial excellence. We believe that Martyn Anthony has the necessary operational experience and proven leadership skills to implement the next stage in our development.”

He added that “the board is delighted that David Williams will continue to provide strategic consultancy advice to them,” due to David having joined the company at what was a difficult time for Omsco.

In the statement, Omsco explains that the last couple of years have been “highly challenging” for both the co-op and the organic dairy sector. However, Williams has “played a critical role in the stabilisation and rejuvenation of the business,” as stated by Kennedy.

During his tenure, Williams helped reviewing and streamlining the business’ activities and created a long-term strategy, which was “focused on re-positioning the business; developing its own brands; and establishing strong commercial relationships both in the UK and overseas”. 

Anthony commented: “I’m delighted to be assuming the role of chief executive of Omsco and look forward to working with the board and wider Omsco team to deliver for our organic dairy farmer members. Although the current market conditions are undoubtedly challenging, I believe that we are capable of riding out this latest storm and in line with our strategy are well placed to build a long-term, value-added, organic dairy business.”