Hort Innovation has confirmed a planned transition in Board leadership, with Chair Julie Bird to retire at the 2026 Annual General Meeting in November.

Following the AGM, Deputy Chair John Said has been scheduled to assume the role of Chair, subject to formal appointment by the Board.

According to Hort Innovation, Ms Bird has overseen a period of strengthened governance, strategic clarity and organisational maturity, helping position the organisation to deliver with confidence now and into the future.

Ms Bird describes the transition as a “natural and considered step”.

“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of Hort Innovation for the past five-and-a-half years, working alongside a committed Board, executive team and dedicated people who support Australian horticulture,” she says.

“Hort Innovation is well positioned, with a clear strategy, strong foundations and a continued focus on delivering for growers. I remain fully committed to working with the Board and management to deliver the strategic outcomes identified in our current strategic plan, while ensuring the organisation is well placed for its next phase.”

Mr Said acknowledges Ms Bird’s contribution and the continuity the planned transition provides.

“Julie has played a pivotal role in strengthening Hort Innovation as a contemporary, trusted organisation with a clear focus on growers and industry outcomes,” he says.

With more than three decades in horticulture, Mr Said brings grower insight, commercial leadership and a strong understanding of global supply chains.

A founder of a national vegetable business supplying major retailers and export markets, he is said to understand both the practical realities facing growers and the commercial environment in which the industry operates.

Mr Said has served on a range of national and international industry boards and has worked closely with the Hort Innovation Board as a Director and Deputy Chair, providing “continuity and deep familiarity” with the organisation’s strategy and governance.