New DPI appointment to strengthen industry adoption of agriculture projects

12 Jul 2021

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has appointed Matt Adkins as the Leader Industry Adoption in DPI’s Agriculture division, to bolster its capacity in planning, developing and delivering scientific-based ag system business solutions.

According to Acting Deputy Director of Agriculture Darren Bayley, the newly created role is responsible for coordinating the development and implementation of industry adoption pathways, with a focus on digital delivery.

“Matt will provide strategic guidance and operational support for industry development, adoption and digital delivery across NSW.

“This will foster greater profitability, improved efficiency and positive environmental and social outcomes for the different agricultural sectors we serve,” said Darren Bayley.

Mr Bayley indicated the selection process was extremely competitive, however the panel was impressed with Mr Adkins expertise and experience in leadership roles that require sound strategy development and innovative approaches when implementing and adopting R&D outputs within commercial settings.

Mr Adkins will transition from his current position as DPI Agriculture’s Leader Northern Horticulture in July 2021.

“I am looking forward to the challenge of assisting the department in developing a data-led capacity to better identify the adoption and research needs of NSW’s agriculture industry and help drive a focus on identifying and measuring adoption outcomes,” said Matt Adkins.

Mr Adkins has more than 20 years of research and adoption experience working in global and local horticulture supply chains, including 12 years in the private sector working with Zespri and the New Zealand kiwifruit industry and DOW Chemical. He also holds an Honours Degree in Environmental Science and Ecology.

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