Bionema Appoints Stephen Ford

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Bionema Appoints Stephen Ford: Bionema Group Ltd, winner of King Awards in Innovation, a leading biocontrol technology developer specialising in sustainable biopesticides, biostimulants, and biofertilisers, is pleased to announce the appointment of Stephen Ford as Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

Mr. Ford brings a wealth of expertise in agricultural biotechnology and pathology, particularly in developing eco-friendly solutions for crop protection and sustainable farming practices.

Bionema Appoints Stephen Ford

Bionema Appoints Stephen Ford

With over 20 years of experience, Stephen Ford is a seasoned innovator and plant pathologist with a strong background in mycology and phytopathogenic diseases. He has an impressive track record in founding and leading companies focused on sustainable agriculture across New Zealand, Australia, and Papua New Guinea. His expertise spans agricultural biotechnology, research and development, pest and disease management, and product commercialisation. As the founder of Biotelliga Holdings Ltd , Ecolibrium Biologicals Holdings Limited and Cellora Limited, Stephen was pivotal in developing and commercialising new biological insecticides and securing strategic partnerships with major industry players, including Syngenta. His proven leadership in bringing innovative products to market instils confidence in Bionema’s future.

In his new role as CTO at Bionema, Mr Ford will drive the company’s technological vision and strategy. He will establish a centre of excellence in biocontrol in Wales, leading a team of 10 skilled scientists and researchers. His leadership will be crucial in overseeing the development of innovative biotechnology products and ensuring the company’s technology development aligns with its strategic goals. Stephen will also play a key role in managing the build-out of a new research facility in Wales and production facilities overseas. These facilities will be instrumental in ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and the successful commercialisation of Bionema’s products.

Prof. Dylan Jones, Chairman of Bionema Group Ltd, expressed his confidence in Stephen Ford’s ability to lead the company’s technological advancements. He stated, “We are thrilled to have Stephen join our executive team. His vast experience in biotechnology and sustainable agriculture and his proven leadership in bringing innovative products to market make him the ideal person to drive Bionema’s technological advancements. We are confident that our research and development efforts will reach new heights under his leadership, further solidifying Bionema’s position as a leader in sustainable crop protection.”

Dr. Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder of Bionema Group Ltd, added, “Stephen’s appointment as CTO marks a significant milestone for Bionema. His deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in our industry, coupled with his passion for sustainable farming, will be instrumental in achieving our mission to develop environmentally friendly solutions for crop protection. We look forward to working closely with Stephen to bring our innovative products to market and make a lasting impact on global agriculture.”

Stephen Ford commented on his new role: “I am excited to join Bionema and contribute to the company’s mission of promoting sustainable farming practices. The opportunity to lead a talented R&D team and work on pioneering biotechnology solutions aligns perfectly with my passion for developing sustainable alternatives to traditional agricultural chemicals. I look forward to driving innovation and helping Bionema deliver on its commitment to enhancing crop protection and plant health”.

Stephen Ford holds a Master’s in Plant Pathology and a Bachelor’s in Horticulture Science from Massey University, New Zealand. He has been recognised for contributing to the agricultural biotechnology industry with several awards, including the prestigious Auckland University Entrepreneurs Challenge and the NZ Bio Award.

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STRI Group welcomes Sarah Hosmer

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STRI Group welcomes Sarah Hosmer: STRI Group is pleased to announce Sarah Hosmer will be joining the business as Principal Consultant.

Bringing her wealth of expertise to the role, Sarah will help to maintain and enhance STRI’s position as leaders in major sports surface design projects across the globe.  With a reputation for her work within the equestrian sector, Sarah will be an integral part of delivering support to new and existing equine clients, as well as working closely with the design and engineering team to develop design techniques from internal research.

STRI Group welcomes Sarah Hosmer

STRI Group welcomes Sarah Hosmer

Tina Jessop, Head of Brand, People and Client Experience commented, “We are delighted to welcome Sarah to the Group, her technical expertise and strategic leadership will be invaluable as we continue to grow and develop our services within the UK and internationally. Sarah is a tremendous asset to the Group, and we look forward to welcoming her to the team.”

For more information about the services STRI Group offers, or to enquire please visit www.strigroup.com or email enquiries@strigroup.com

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Bionema Appoints Andrew Turnbull

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Bionema Appoints Andrew Turnbull: Bionema Group Ltd, winner of the King’s Award for Enterprise and Innovation 2024, is delighted to announce the appointment of Andrew Turnbull as Biological Technical Specialist.

Andrew joins the team with an impressive 25 years of experience as a turf professional, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the company. Before joining, Andrew was at Biotechnica as a Business Development Manager. Andrew’s appointment starts in his role on July 8th, 2024.

Bionema Appoints Andrew Turnbull

Bionema Appoints Andrew Turnbull

Bionema is a leading biocontrol technology company specialising in developing and producing natural products to protect crops, improve plant health, and reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and fertilisers. With a solid commitment to sustainability and innovation, Bionema collaborates with research institutions and industry partners to deliver effective and environmentally friendly solutions to the agricultural sector.

Andrew’s academic background includes a BSc (Hons.) and a Master of Research in plant sciences. His career has been distinguished by his pioneering work in using plant and soil biostimulants, particularly in the UK and European turfgrass markets. Andrew has demonstrated exceptional abilities in identifying challenges that growers, farmers, and turfgrass managers face, sourcing potential solutions, and implementing innovative treatments for optimal plant growth and health.

Andrew will work closely with existing and new markets in his new role, leveraging his extensive experience to enhance plant health through optimised rhizosphere interactions, plant nutrition, and natural responses to pest and disease attacks. His expertise will be instrumental in advancing Bionema’s mission to promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder of Bionema commented on the appointment: “We are excited to welcome Andrew to the Bionema team. His vast experience and innovative approach to plant health and biostimulants align perfectly with our goals. Andrew’s appointment will significantly strengthen our capabilities and expand our reach in delivering sustainable solutions to our clients.”

Andrew Turnbull expressed his enthusiasm for the new role: “I am excited to join Bionema and contribute to their pioneering efforts in sustainable agriculture. I look forward to working with the team to develop and implement cutting-edge biostimulant solutions that enhance plant health and productivity.”

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Sam Lewis appointed by AriensCo

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Sam Lewis appointed by AriensCo: Sam Lewis has been appointed as AriensCo’s new UK Sales Manager. Sam, who has worked in the sales industry for over a decade, brings with him a decorated career spanning energy, finance and education. His appointment will bolster AriensCo’s continued drive to build new relationships with customers and dealers in the UK as well as across Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa.

The new appointment comes as part of AriensCo’s constant investment into its operations in EMEAA. Since 2019, AriensCo has invested heavily in product development, engineering and manufacturing while also acquiring German high grass, slopes and mulching specialty brand AS-Motor. These decisions have made AriensCo one of the largest and fastest growing outdoor power equipment brands throughout EMEAA.

Sam Lewis appointed by AriensCo

Sam Lewis appointed by AriensCo

Sam’s core responsibilities will include overseeing communication with new and existing dealers, helping dealers grow their business and supporting dealers in every aspect of their corporate lifecycle.

Brad Stiles, Vice President of Sales EMEAA said, “AriensCo continues to experience phenomenal growth throughout Europe, and further afield, thanks to our mission of providing products and services that meet the needs of our customers. Sam’s credentials and wide-ranging experience makes him the perfect person to spearhead our extensive range of Ariens and AS-Motor commercial and domestic outdoor power equipment.”

On his appointment, Sam Lewis said, “I’m very excited to be joining AriensCo and am looking forward to continuing the good work that has come before me. I can’t wait to meet and get to know our dealership network so that together we can develop sales strategies that will enable continued growth and high levels of customer satisfaction.”

Sam will report to Brad Stiles, Vice President of Sales EMEAA.

To contact Sam, email him at slewis@ariensco.com or call 07976 833761.

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Come on Ian!

Come on Ian!

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Come on Ian!: Ian Darler’s extraordinary challenge of walking the distance from London to Qatar in time for the start of the World Cup is on track with the goal finally coming into view.

The Cambridge United Head Groundsman set himself the target of walking the 3228 miles to Qatar in aid of mental health charity SHOUT 85258 back in March and since then Ian has been clocking up the miles on a daily basis – many swallowed up cutting the Abbey Stadium pitch.

Come on Ian!

Come on Ian!

“It looks like I am still on schedule to complete the walk and Cambridge United are arranging for me to walk from Parkers Piece football monument in the centre of Cambridge to the Abbey Stadium on Saturday 19th November when we play Accrington Stanley,” explained Ian, who will have taken approximately eight million steps by the time he completes his walk.

 

Anyone wishing to support Ian in his fundraising can visit www.cambridgecharityfundraisers.com to make a donation.

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