The Main Board
Agreeing strategic direction
Our Main Board agrees the strategic direction of our business.
Chris Howard was one of the founder members of the business and was appointed Chairman in 1986. His family farm has supplied Branston with potatoes since its inception in 1968. Chris now leaves the farming to his son, Robert which allows him to concentrate on his many business interests in the property and agricultural supply sectors.
Graeme Beattie (Managing Director) joined Branston in 1982 and became MD six years later. Graeme was instrumental in gaining the Tesco account in 1990 and has overseen the development and growth of the business including a number of strategic acquisitions.
Julie McTurk joined us in 1993 and was promoted to Finance Director in 1997. She combines this role with that of Company Secretary and is responsible for all financial and legal matters within the company.
John Ward is a grower shareholder, with responsibility for grower liaison. He became part of the Branston family as one of nine North Lincolnshire growers who joined us in 1989.
John Lockwood is another grower shareholder, supplying a significant volume to our Lincolnshire site. He’s also our financial expert, and is Chairman of both the Audit and Remuneration Committees.
James Dean is from one of the original families who started our business and they’re still a big supplier to our Lincoln site. James is responsible for property, marketing, entertainment and PR, as well as sitting on the Remuneration Committee.
Mark Willcox joined us from McKinsey and Co in 2003, after having led a 16-week lean production transformation project for us. As Development Director, he’s responsible for our continuous improvement and innovation, as well as overseeing our high care facility.
Chris Howard
Graeme Beattie
Julie McTurk
John Ward
John Lockwood
James Dean
Mark Willcox