Food industry charity GroceryAid has appointed a new director general.

Steve Barnes, who is commercial and membership director at the Food & Drink Federation (FDF), will be staring his “hugely exciting role” in September.

Barnes will replace Gillian Barker, who has held the position at GroceryAid for 14 years.

Barnes told British Baker: “This is my dream job; the charity raises money for a cause that is very close to my heart.”

He explained he was keen on keeping up momentum, to help more people and build on the company’s work over the years.

He added: “This is a growing industry and the important thing is to have GroceryAid on the tip of everyone’s tongues.”

Barker, who announced her retirement in February, said: “I am delighted that Steve has been appointed as my successor.

“I am more than confident that GroceryAid will continue to support our industry colleagues under his stewardship.”

Barnes will be working alongside Barker until her retirement in November – he said she does a “terrific” job.

A successor for Barnes at the FDF will be announced shortly.

Elsewhere, GroceryAid is running the Grocery Cook of the Year Competition 2016. The finals will be held in October, in Lyon, France.

Last month a rowing charity event in the Lake District, sponsored by Mars UK, raised more than £67k for GroceryAid.

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