MARK Gibson has been appointed as Head of the new Outreach and Innovation Department within Teagasc’s Knowledge Transfer (KT) Directorate.
In this position, Mark Gibson will assist in the strategic development, leadership and management of efficient and effective knowledge transfer in Teagasc. The Knowledge Transfer Programme in Teagasc incorporates the Advisory and Education components of Teagasc’s activities.
Mark will take responsibility within this programme for the coordination and development of knowledge outreach channels, including developing digital capacity in this area. He will also lead the development of skills and internal and external training programmes. The role will also include significant stakeholder engagement.
Mark Gibson has over 20 years’ experience coordinating national knowledge transfer programmes in the agri-food sector. In previous roles he led the Teagasc ConnectEd programme and worked as an Environment Specialist and Agricultural Advisor with Teagasc. He has worked with the EU Commission as a Coordinating Expert and has significant experience managing digital transformation projects.
Announcing the appointment, Dr Stan Lalor, Director of Knowledge Transfer in Teagasc said; “This is an important strategic appointment for Teagasc in continuing to support and develop the work of our advisory, education and innovation services to our farmer clients and stakeholders.
“Mark brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been involved in many technical, digital and communications programmes and innovations in Teagasc, most recently through his leading of the development of the ConnectEd service provided by Teagasc”.
In response to his appointment, Mark commented; “We have entered a defining decade for farming in Ireland. This is an exciting new role for Teagasc and I look forward to working in collaboration with all parts of the agri-food sector to develop innovative responses to the sustainability challenges and, importantly, the opportunities that lie ahead. “
