The race to become the CEO of the IFA has reached its final phase. Next Thursday 10 November, the candidates pruned from the five interviewed last week will face one final interview.

The selected candidate is likely to be announced the following Wednesday, and presented to the IFA’s executive council, which meets on that day.

The Irish Farmers Journal understands that one of the shortlisted candidates is withdrawing from the contest. James Brady, currently head of procurement at Rosderra Meats, has been linked to the IFA’s top job since last year when the vacancy arose following Pat Smith’s departure. Previously the executive secretary for the pig committee, it now seems that he will not be returning to the Farm Centre at this time.