Working within both the UK and overseas, he will help develop new markets for the company, which has become renowned for the prolificacy of its breeding stock.

Mr Joseph, who has held several senior management posts with pig genetics companies, said: "I find the ACMC approach refreshing. They have a well-motivated team and a science-based breeding programme that delivers tangible improvements at farm level."

A keen follower of national hunt racing and an expert shot, he lives with his wife, Paula, at Grayingham, near Gainsborough in Lincolnshire, where, he says, gardening is a hobby which helps him relax!