AMPC is pleased to welcome Holly Speers to our team. Holly joined AMPC in February 2025 as a Project Officer supporting the People and Culture research program area. Holly will work closely with processors and service providers on projects that focus on workforce development and industry engagement, and supporting initiatives to attract and retain skilled professionals in the red meat processing industry.
Holly is a rural science graduate from the University of New England (UNE), with hands-on experience across livestock production and research. She has worked in meat science research at UNE and with the Department of Primary Industries, developing her knowledge of red meat production and supply chains. Her Honours research focused on optimising lairage duration to improve carcase yield and food safety.
How did you get involved in the red meat processing industry?
My journey into agriculture started in high school when I began showing cattle, which sparked my passion for the livestock industry. That led me to study rural science at the University of New England, where I took every opportunity to gain hands-on experience, working across different agricultural sectors to build a strong foundation of practical knowledge. Through these experiences, I developed a keen interest in red meat production and processing, particularly in how we can improve efficiency, sustainability, and profitability.
Attending industry programs like ICMJ and BeefEx reinforced my passion, exposing me to the people and innovations shaping the industry. Now, in my role, I’m not only focused on supporting processors with research and extension but also on ensuring we continue attracting skilled, passionate individuals into the sector—because the future of red meat processing depends on both innovation and the great people who make this industry what it is.
What are you most excited about in your role and working with processors?
I’m most excited about working directly with processors to help translate research into practical, real-world solutions. The red meat industry is fast-paced and continuously evolving, and I’m eager to be part of that progression—whether it’s optimising operational efficiency, improving animal welfare outcomes, or supporting sustainability initiatives.
A big part of this role is also about collaboration—working with different stakeholders across the supply chain to tackle challenges and implement meaningful improvements. The people in this industry are what make it great, and I’m looking forward to learning from their experience while helping to drive innovation and best practice adoption.
What are your priorities for the next three months?
My key priorities over the next three months are to immerse myself in the role, build strong relationships with processors and industry stakeholders, and develop a solid understanding of the challenges and opportunities across the sector. I also want to stay across the latest research and industry trends to ensure I can provide valuable, evidence-based insights.
Another focus is on workforce development—understanding the needs of processors in attracting and retaining skilled employees. The industry offers great career opportunities, and I’m keen to explore ways to support and promote these pathways while ensuring processors have the workforce they need to thrive.
Where do you see red meat processing in 10 years?
In the next decade, I see red meat processing becoming even more advanced, leveraging automation, data-driven decision-making, and sustainability initiatives to enhance productivity and meet evolving consumer expectations. There will likely be a stronger emphasis on environmental responsibility, traceability, and animal welfare, driving the industry toward more innovative and efficient solutions.
At the same time, attracting and retaining skilled workers will continue to be a priority. As technology evolves, so will the skill sets required to keep the industry competitive. I see a future where the red meat sector continues to adapt—embracing both cutting-edge innovation and the development of a strong, skilled workforce to keep Australian processing at the forefront globally.
Get in touch with Holly at h.speers@ampc.com.au