UK | First Milk has announced the appointment of Nasair Hussain as its new Chief Executive after an extensive search.
Hussain will join First Milk on 1st of March 2027, succeeding Shelagh Hancock, who announced in April that she will retire next spring after ten years leading the farmer-owned dairy co-operative.
He brings 30 years’ international experience across dairy, fresh produce and food manufacturing, with a track record of driving commercial growth, strengthening operational performance and developing customer relationships across the retail, foodservice and industrial sectors.
Throughout his career, Hussain has led complex food businesses, combining strategic direction with hands-on operational management to deliver sustainable growth and build commercially focused organisations.
He joins from APS Group, where he serves as Group Chief Executive, having previously held the role of Managing Director at Dale Farm and several executive positions within Kerry Group across the UK and Asia. His background includes extensive experience in the dairy and co-operative sectors.
Hussain was delighted to join First Milk and called it a business with a strong sense of purpose, a distinctive farmer-owned model, and an excellent reputation across the dairy industry.
“The dairy industry and wider agrifood sector is evolving at pace, and I’m looking forward to spending time with First Milk members and colleagues, learning about the business, and working with the team to build on the progress made in recent years,” said Hussain.
“There is a strong platform in place, and I’m excited about the opportunity to help shape the next chapter for First Milk to create sustainable, long-term resilience for farmer members.”
Hugo Mahoney, Chairman of First Milk, looks forward to working with him to build on the significant progress made under Hancock’s leadership, whilst also bringing a new perspective.
“I also want to reiterate my thanks to Shelagh for her leadership of the business over the last ten years, which has been transformative, and I want to wish her all the very best in her retirement when it comes,” said Mahoney.
“In the meantime, I’m pleased that she will remain with us until the end of March, allowing for a comprehensive handover and ensuring continuity as we make this important transition.”
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