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Sheep Producers Australia appoints new chief executive officer

Sheep Central, June 15, 2020

New SPA CEO Stephen Crisp.

NEW Sheep Producers Australia chief executive officer Stephen Crisp has urged continued co-operation with the wool sector for the benefit of animal welfare and biosecurity.

Mr Crisp has been appoint to the SPA’s top position, after working as acting chief executive officer since December last year, following the departure of the body’s first CEO Graham Smith, in November 2019.

Mr Crisp said he comes from a family that has always run sheep and he is looking forward to making a difference in an industry he is already invested in.

“The SPA board has a great deal of knowledge and expertise, and I look forward to working with them as we navigate the many challenges and opportunities the sheep industry faces,” he said.

“I have worked for many years with processors, both in plant and export logistics.

“As long as there is competition throughout the supply chain, it will always be better for our producers and the rest of the supply chain to work closely together,” Mr Crisp said.

“That way, you get exactly the right information on what the best sheep is for the market’s needs.”

Mr Crisp said Australia is the country of the “each-way bet”, and dual purpose is what makes sheep the best livestock to run in many regions.

“It does not really matter if a sheep is raised primarily for meat or wool.

“We must continue to work closely with the wool industry for the benefit of animal welfare and biosecurity.”

SPA said Mr Crisp brings over 30 years of experience working across the agricultural supply chain and would provide the leadership the sheep industry needed to ensure a productive, profitable and sustainable future.

SPA chairman Chris Mirams said Mr Crisp’s knowledge of the industry and extensive background in the broader red meat sector is an asset to the organisation.

“Stephen and his team are well placed to continue to advocate for the reduction of red tape and regulatory burden, whilst ensuring that we have the correct measures in place to continue producing a safe, sustainable, reliable and high quality product that enables access to as many markets as possible for our members.”

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