UEL Morton, chief executive of Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), the red meat industry's promotional body, will step down from his role later this year.
After 11 years in the post, Mr Morton (59) has decided to hand over the reins this summer following a recruitment process, which will start in the coming weeks, to find his successor.
Mr Morton, who has served in chief executive roles in the Scottish food and drink industry for the past 20 years, said he has enjoyed his role at the helm of the public body.
"The decision to step down is not one I have taken lightly. I have huge pride in the breadth of activities - from marketing and education to industry development, quality assurance and economic analysis - which the small team of QMS staff delivers," said Mr Morton.
"I have been privileged to play a role in the development of QMS during the past decade and I am 100 per cent confident the organisation will continue to go from strength to strength and rise to every challenge and opportunity in the years ahead."
Mr Morton, whose career included nine years as chief executive of United Farmers Ltd, intends to retain an active role in the Scottish food and drink industry when he steps down from QMS, including consultancy and non-executive work.
Market round-up
Lawrie & Symington Ltd had a very mixed show of store cattle forward in Lanark on Tuesday that included many heavy types, with all classes meeting a sharper trade on the previous sale. One-hundred-and-ninety-five heifers sold to £1175 per head and 244.1p per kg to average £904.49 and 204.8p, while 341 bullocks peaked at £1270 and 271.6p to level at £968.51 and 216.1p. Fifty-five B&W bullocks sold to £890 and 194.6p to average £715.64 and 143.4p.
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