Ian Donnelly has taken up the position of chief executive at the Ulster Farmers' Union. He succeeds Wesley Aston, who led the organisation for more than ten years.

Aston helped position the union as the main representative for farmers in Northern Ireland.

Donnelly previously worked as managing director of the union's commercial subsidiary, Countryside Services. He also held positions with the Livestock and Meat Commission and the Northern Ireland Meat Exporters Association.

Donnelly stated his commitment to making sure members' views are heard clearly and consistently. He aims to work with the team to build the union and support farming families across Northern Ireland.