National Rural Independents (NRI) has appointed Ben Parker to the role of national business manager – animal health, nutrition and fencing.

Ben brings extensive industry experience and a strong commercial skill set, with his background in senior roles across the animal health sector.

Throughout his career, he has consistently delivered significant business growth and led successful key account initiatives across both extensive and intensive livestock portfolios.

Ben also holds a Diploma in Agricultural Science, further strengthening the expertise he brings to the NRI business and its shareholders.

A company spokesman says Ben has only been on board since January but has been making a significant impact to the business.

NRI's shareholders are all independent store business owners, and they understand the importance of their people and relationships.

It places a high value on networking within the group, collaboration with suppliers, and learning opportunities for shareholders and their staff – which is where overarching roles such as Ben’s are key.

NRI is a low cost, highly efficient rural distribution model with a focus on delivering value to it store owners and supplier partners as well as its extensive client base.