Farm Africa congratulates Judith Batchelar OBE

17 June 2015

Farm Africa has congratulated Judith Batchelar on being awarded an OBE for services to Food and Farming in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list published on 13 June 2015.

Judith has been Director of Sainsbury’s brand for 10 years and was appointed as a trustee of Farm Africa in June 2012.

Richard Macdonald, Chair of Farm Africa, said: “On behalf of the whole Farm Africa board of trustees and staff I would like to congratulate Judith Batchelar on being awarded an OBE. This award is a very well deserved recognition of Judith’s deep expertise in and commitment to sustainable farming and food systems all over the world.

 “Judith never fails to go the extra mile and support Farm Africa. She has been instrumental in the success of Farm Africa’s Food for Good campaign that has so far raised £1,000,000 for Farm Africa’s vital programmes tackling hunger and poverty in eastern Africa. Most notably Judith led Farm Africa’s Dig for Good and Big Beehive Build fundraising challenges, which saw groups of businesswomen from the food industry digging a swimming pool-sized fish pond in Kenya and building 90 beehives in Tanzania’s Nou Forest.”

Judith Batchelar OBE said: “I am absolutely delighted and feel truly honoured by this recognition. I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved at Sainsbury’s so this is testament to the work of my team and everything we’re doing to drive innovation and quality for our customers. We’re committed to our values and sourcing, as well as supporting our farmers and always looking for new, sustainable ways of working.”

 Speaking about the recent Big Beehive Build for Farm Africa, Judith commented:

“It’s great to be involved in this project, and hopefully play a part in making a valuable and lasting different to the women we meet. As with all societies, women face a number of challenges, and it’s especially difficult for women in Africa. Giving them independence is incredibly important so they can develop businesses and an income for themselves, allowing them to manage their money and support their families.” 

Judith has worked in the food and drink industry for over 30 years and is a Biochemist and Registered Nutritionist.

In addition to acting as a trustee for Farm Africa, Judith sits on the Executive Board of the Prince’s Accounting for Sustainability Project and the Board of Trustees for The Matt Hampson Foundation, is a member of the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST), and a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. She is also an ambassador for the Woodland Trust and Co Chairs the Governments Industrial Leadership Council working on the implementation of the UK's first Agri-Tech Strategy.