After decades of leading Cotton Seed Distributors (CSD) outstanding growth, Peter Graham will retire from the managing director position on 31 December 2023.

Towards the end of this year the CSD board will focus on a seamless transition to the new chief executive officer, Dr Ian Taylor (see separate story).

CSD supplies Australian cotton growers with premium germplasm and biotechnology traits and is globally recognised for developing superior cotton varieties that are acknowledged for their outstanding yield and quality capabilities.

Since 1990 Mr Graham has worked tirelessly to secure and develop the capability of CSD, both in its production and research facilities, ensuring Australian cotton growers’ access to the best technology.

Mr Graham has led successful investment to expand the Australian cotton breeding program through a strong focus on research and development. He also drove CSD’s growth in extension activities that have contributed to industry growth, with cotton now being grown from northern Victoria to northern Australia, effectively tripling the average size of the Australian cotton crop.

In a statement, CSD said the company is indebted to Mr Graham for his contribution to the business and the cotton industry over this time. “Peter’s unwavering commitment to CSD’s success has played an integral part in helping us get to where we are today, we wish he and Belinda all the best in their retirement”, said CSD chair Tony Quigley.