MEET THE BOARD
NIGEL CAREY NUT PRODUCERS
AUSTRALIA
Q . How long have you been involved in the almond industry ?
I joined the almond industry late 2009 , and based in Adelaide however a large part of my time is spent between our almond and pistachio facilities . In my role as CEO I tend to spend time across most parts of the business , with a stronger focus on staying in touch with the market and working with our operational teams driving our growth strategies .
Q . What prompted you to join the ABA board ?
I initially joined the Marketing Committee then transitioned on the ABA board with interest stimulated by the cohesive nature of industry ( having come from a fresh produce background ). The ability of the industry to work collectively and pool skills and knowledge to support sector wide improvements is a real strength and attraction .
Q . Do you have a highlight from either being on the ABA board or working in the industry ?
For me the highlight has been witnessing the growth in the industry , and the way the industry has been able to maintain the adhesion in the face of some recent tough seasons . This has been demonstrated with the continued commitment of the industry committees , and the marketers working together at international events and trade shows .
Q . What ’ s one priority that you are hoping to see the ABA board focus on in the coming year ?
There is a real opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of undeveloped markets close to home and develop strategies to broaden our market base as a platform for future industry volumes .
Q . What do you enjoy doing in your spare time ?
Cycling , cooking , we are just embarking on a home renovation , and I ’ d love to see more speedway ( my inner bogan ).
Q . What is the best way to eat an almond ?
I love them dry roasted , almond flour in baking , and of course coated in Haigh ’ s dark chocolate .
PAUL STEWART ALMONDCO
Q . How long have you been involved in the almond industry ?
I was first involved in almond processing analysis and costings with Berrivale Orchards back in the late 80s and early 90s when Almondco ’ s processing facilities were part of the Berrivale Sturt Highway site . In the early 2000s I was a qualified SQF1000 facilitator and helped implement a number of systems into almond orchards around the Riverland . Towards the end of the 2000s I established a software development business with two other partners , and we developed the ALMADS processing system which enable process tracking of almonds from the orchard through the entire supply chain using barcode scanning technology . ALMADS is used by huller and shellers / processors in California , Australia and now Europe . In January 2022 I was appointed Group Sales and Marketing Manager for Almondco Australia Limited . At November ’ s ABA AGM I was appointed to the Board as a marketing representative and also the Marketing subcommittee .
Q . What prompted you to join the ABA board ?
As a significant stakeholder in the Australian Almond Industry Almondco provides a representative on to the Board and the marketing subcommittee . When the opportunity came up for me to take over the position I willingly accepted . It is important that while recognising the competitive aspects of our respective organisations within the industry it is most beneficial for the organisations , growers and other stakeholders to communicate and work together where possible for the future of the entire Industry .
Q . Do you have a highlight from either being on the ABA board or working in the industry ?
The people involved in the almond industry in Australia and globally are motivated , positive , dedicated and welcoming . In my experience , this is unique across an entire industry .
Q . What ’ s one priority that you are hoping to see the ABA board focus on in the coming year ?
A key priority is to instigate strategies and actions to collectively grow the international market for Australian almonds . With the aim to ultimately underpin and improve returns to all growers .
Q . What do you enjoy doing in your spare time ?
My partner and our four children ( all now adults ) along with the house and garden keep me occupied . I am a sports fanatic and while I will watch almost anything I ’ m still involved with cricket ( over 50s player ) and football ( member of the Berri FC football department ).
Q . What is the best way to eat an almond ?
The versatility of almonds makes this a difficult question , but my preference is either snacking or using our almond paste as a dip or savoury spread .
industry . australianalmonds . com . au
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