Isle of Man Creamery has announced the appointment of Stephen Keeley as its new managing director, marking the next chapter for the island’s dairy farmers cooperative, the dairy says.

He steps into the role after 27 years with the creamery, having most recently served as finance director. Over nearly three decades, he has developed an in-depth understanding of every aspect of the business, working closely with the cooperative’s producer farmers, board, employees and customers.

His appointment follows the departure of former managing firector Findlay Macleod. Chair of the Isle of Man Creamery board, Dougie Coole, says, “Stephen has dedicated almost three decades to Isle of Man Creamery and has played a significant role in the development of the business during that time. He brings a wealth of commercial knowledge, strategic insight and a genuine commitment to our farmers’ cooperative.

‘The board is delighted to appoint Stephen as managing director and is confident he has the vision and leadership to build on the strong foundations already in place while guiding the cooperative through its next stage of development.”

Keeley says, “It is a real privilege to be asked to lead such a talented, experienced and knowledgeable team. Isle of Man Creamery has a proud history, and I believe we have an exciting future.

“Our focus will be on building on the successes of the past while ensuring we continue to develop a thriving and sustainable dairy sector for the Isle of Man. We are fortunate to have many natural advantages that set us apart, from our grass-fed dairy system and high animal welfare standards to the traceability and quality that come from producing dairy products on an island.

“We have already begun a strategic review of the business, looking at every aspect of our operations to ensure we are well positioned for the future. As part of that work, we will continue to refine our product portfolio, review how we communicate the value of our products, particularly in export markets, and ensure we remain focused on what makes Isle of Man dairy genuinely different.”

Isle of Man Creamery is owned by 28 dairy farming families and employs around 85 people at the central Creamery in Tromode. The cooperative produces a range of fresh milk, cream, butter and cheeses using 100% Manx milk, supplying customers both on the island and further afield.