Ivy Farm Technologies has appointed Gail Francis as its new Vice President of Commercial, effective immediately. Francis brings over 30 years of experience in the global food industry, having held leadership roles in major food manufacturers, brands, and startups across the UK, Europe, and international markets.
“Gail’s expertise […] will be invaluable as we prepare to launch and expand cultivated meat on a global scale”
Prior to joining Ivy Farm, Francis served as Director of Business Growth & Delivery at Naylor Nutrition. In this role, she was instrumental in securing investment for a plant-based production facility and helping to shape the company’s market strategy.
“I’m excited to join Ivy Farm, a company at the forefront of the cultivated meat sector. As the food industry works to meet net-zero targets, cultivated meat will play a vital role in reducing emissions and shifting the food system towards sustainability. Establishing long-term partnerships with global food brands and manufacturers will be essential, and Ivy Farm’s capability to produce high-quality products at scale positions it well to lead this transition,” stated Francis.
At Ivy Farm, Francis will oversee the company’s commercial development, focusing on scaling operations and advancing the regulatory approval process for its cultivated Wagyu beef product. This product, which is being developed for multiple global markets, is positioned as a high-end, sustainable alternative to traditional beef.
Regulatory approval & global expansion plans
Ivy Farm Technologies is currently working with regulatory bodies worldwide as it aims to secure approval for its cultivated Wagyu beef, a product that seeks to redefine premium meat with sustainability at its core.
The company is preparing for a significant launch, and Francis’ appointment comes at a crucial time, as the UK has seen positive momentum in cultivated meat initiatives. Recent developments such as the introduction of the Food Standards Agency (FSA) Sandbox and the establishment of the National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC) have contributed to a more favorable regulatory environment.
Harsh Amin, interim CEO of Ivy Farm, expressed confidence in Francis’ ability to guide the company through its next phase of growth. “Gail’s expertise across the global food industry will be invaluable as we prepare to launch and expand cultivated meat on a global scale,” noted Amin.
