Paul Larmer, CEO of Semex Alliance, has been elected to a two-year term as president and chair of the Board of The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
Larmer succeeds outgoing president John M. Dunlap Jr. Since 1922, ‘The Royal’ has been Canada’s leader in showcasing Canadian agriculture, food and equine excellence.
Born and raised on an Ontario dairy farm, Larmer has a lifetime of experience in the bovine genetics industry. He is a strong promoter of Canadian agriculture and youth in agriculture, having served as former chair of the OAC Alumni Association, the Ontario 4-H Foundation and as a past member of the Board of Trustees of the Ontario Dairy Youth Trust Fund. Paul is also an accomplished international dairy cattle judge who has adjudicated major competitions in Japan, Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada. More recently, Paul has been instrumental in leading Semex’s growth globally.
“I’m extremely proud to be stepping into this role as president and chairman, especially given the stature and impact of those who have served before me in the promotion of Canadian agriculture and equine sport,” says Larmer. “I look forward to working with other directors and Royal volunteers, as together we build on the strong momentum generated in 2013.”
“The Royal is in the midst of a three-year strategic initiative and we look forward to the leadership and energy Paul will bring to our plans to make The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair an even bigger success,” said Sandra Banks, chief executive officer of The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
The Royal is coming off a banner year in 2013 with attendance rising to 312,000 and strong growth in livestock and equestrian competitions. The 92nd edition of The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair runs November 7-16, 2014 at Exhibition Place in Toronto.
(The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair)