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David Holdsworth has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). David started in the role on 25 April 2022.

The appointment follows a competitive recruitment round and he will take up the role on a permanent basis.

David Holdsworth, Chief Executive of APHA, said:

I feel very privileged to have joined APHA at this important time. The agency plays a vital role in safeguarding animal and plant health for the benefit of people, the environment and the economy.

I am hugely looking forward to working with APHA’s world class experts, as well as our stakeholders and partners to continue delivering excellent services for our customers and the UK.

David Holdsworth biography:

• Before joining APHA as the Chief Executive, David was the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the UK Intellectual Property Office.
• He has also had senior roles at the Charity Commission, the Home Office and spent five years in the private sector.
• David is a fellow of the Institute of Directors and has been Chairman of the Liverpool city region branch. David is currently a non-remunerated Board Trustee of the Council of Deans of Health – the voice of UK university faculties for nursing, midwifery and the allied health professions.

Further information:

• The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) employs approximately 2,500 staff and operates from sites, including specialist laboratories, across Great Britain.
• In addition to working on behalf of Defra and the Scottish and Welsh Governments, APHA also provides services to other government departments, the farming industry, international bodies and commercial customers worldwide.