The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) has appointed Neil Hornby as its
interim Chief Executive Officer.
Neil's term began on 9 June 2025. The appointment follows former
RPA Chief Executive Paul Caldwell's decision to step down and
retire from the Civil Service earlier this year. The recruitment
process for a permanent Chief Executive is currently underway.
Neil brings extensive experience to the position, having
previously served as Chief Executive of the Centre for
Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), as
well as in senior government roles working on marine and
fisheries, nuclear energy, flood risk management, soils and
animal health.
Neil Hornby, Interim Chief Executive of the Rural Payments
Agency, said:
I am delighted to join the Rural Payments Agency at such an
important time for British agriculture.
I look forward to working with our dedicated team to provide
a great service to farmers, landowners and rural communities
across the country.
Furthermore, Adrian Belton has been appointed as Chair of the
Agency Management Board. The board provides leadership to the
RPA, advising on strategy and ensuring high standards
of corporate governance are maintained. Adrian brings a
wealth of expertise to the role, having previously served as
Chief Executive of the Food and Environment Research Agency
(FERA) for six years.
Adrian Belton, Chair of the Agency Management Board said:
I'm excited to begin my role as Chair of the AMB, where I'll
focus on strategically supporting the RPA in the years ahead.
