The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has announced that Conall Donnelly is to be appointed its new chief executive.

He will replace Wesley Aston, who has held the role for the past 10 years and is set to retire in March 2026.

Donnelly is currently chief executive of Countryside Services, a commercial subsidiary of the UFU.

He previously worked for the NI Meat Exporters’ Association and before that he was with the Livestock and Meat Commission.

“The UFU conducted a very thorough recruitment process over the past few months to appoint a new CEO and were extremely encouraged with the response received,” said UFU president William Irwin.

“We are delighted to now confirm that Conall Donnelly has been appointed as UFU CEO and will begin the role in early March 2026,” he added.