Mark Isaacson has been appointed to the newly-created post of Commercial Director with  Herts-based ingredients supplier Bowmans, as the company looks to develop strategic approaches to materials sourcing and risk management.

Mr Isaacson, until recently Chief Executive with East Anglian grain specialists Fengrain, has two decades of expertise gained in the grain industry. Much of his career has been spent in senior roles responsible for buying raw materials for the food industry.

“This appointment represents a step change for our business and a strategic response to increasingly volatile markets,” said Rory Bowman, Deputy Managing Director of James Bowman & Sons Ltd. “We recognise that someone of Mark’s calibre will help develop secure supply chains that link procurement to delivering quality ingredients to our food industry customers.”

Welcoming his appointment, Mr Isaacson said: “I am delighted to be joining Bowmans at this exciting time for the grain industry. I believe there are great opportunities for businesses to create real added value for their customers through innovative sourcing strategies. Bowmans is already a clear leader in the field and I look forward to contributing to the Company’s continued success.”

Part of Mr Isaacson’s brief will be to oversee wheat buying and he will take over from Robin Reid who retires at the end of 2008 after 15 years service.

“Robin has made a great contribution to the company over many years,” said Mr Bowman. “With Mark on board we can now plan an orderly hand over.”