Ivy Farm Technologies appoints new commercial VP to accelerate cultivated meat integration

UK cultivated meat business Ivy Farm Technologies has announced the appointment of Gail Francis as its new vice president of commercial.

Francis brings more than three decades of experience in the global food industry, and has worked in markets around the world with major food manufacturers, brands, startups, and foodservice providers.

In the role, she will spearhead Ivy Farm’s commercial development as the company progresses towards regulatory approval for its premium cultivated wagyu beef in territories around the world.

The company said she would lead efforts to secure “high-impact commercial partnerships that are critical to establishing cultivated meat as a staple in consumers’ everyday diets”.

“I’m excited to get started at Ivy Farm, an ambitious company at the forefront of the cultivated meat revolution,” said Francis. “As food companies pursue serious net zero commitments, cultivated meat will be essential in reducing emissions and transforming the food system into one that’s better for both people and the planet.

“Securing long-term partnerships with global food manufacturers and brands will be key – and Ivy Farm is uniquely positioned to deliver these partnerships thanks to its ability to produce high-quality products at scale.”

Francis most recently served as director of business growth & delivery at Naylor Nutrition, where she played a key role in securing investment to build a new plant-based production facility and deliver a comprehensive go-to-market strategy.

She joins the company as it prepares for global launch.

“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Gail to Ivy Farm Technologies as our new commercial vice president,” said Harsh Amin, interim CEO at Ivy Farm. “Her extensive experience across the global food industry, including leadership roles at some of the largest food businesses, will be instrumental as we prepare to launch and scale cultivated meat globally.”