Natasha hopes to deliver a ‘bright new vision’ as Hampshire Fare’s new Commercial Manager

Hampshire Fare, the not-for-profit CIC supporting the food, drink and hospitality industry, has appointed Natasha Dochniak as its new Commercial Manager.

Natasha officially took over the role on the 2nd October, following an official handover the week before at Hampshire Fare’s network event at Stewarts Abbey Garden Centre, Titchfield.

This gave the organisation the chance to introduce Natasha to members of its community, while also giving her predecessor, Tracy Nash, the opportunity to say farewell after a decade of leadership.

Tracy said: “It has been amazing to work with such a colourful array of businesses over the past ten years and within a business culture that wants to help each other.

“I wish Natasha and the team all the very best for the next decade of celebrating local as one of the country’s leading food and drink groups!”

Natasha commented: “I have certainly had a warm welcome and my early observations are that I have joined a vibrant food, drink, craft and farming community of passionate people who all share the common purpose of producing and promoting local.”

Born and bred in Southampton, Bournemouth University alumna Natasha worked on marketing campaigns for the National Trust before moving to Australia.

It was there that she built her career in partnership and sponsorship management, events and business development for significant operations such as Sydney Opera House, the Historic Houses Trust of NSW and FINSIA (Financial Services Institute of Australasia).

Having returned to the UK, she was working in financial services and not looking to change role until a friend and long-standing Hampshire Fare member Sylvia Puckett, of J & S Fresh Fish, flagged up the opportunity.

Natasha continued: “I am very excited to have joined Hampshire Fare. This role brings together all my skills and work experiences. I am all about building long-term relationships, communication and collaborations.

“I consider it important to work for an organisation where your values align and I can see that Hampshire Fare is all about making a difference.

“I believe, looking forwards, I can make a positive impact and difference to Hampshire Fare, making it even more effective for its members in the food, drink, craft and farming communities.”

Will Dobson, Chairman, Hampshire Fare, added: “The Board would like to thank Tracy Nash for her unstinting efforts over the last decade, working with enthusiasm and energy to promote local to consumers, businesses and the next generation.

“She leaves a lasting legacy – a highly respected food and drink group. She has also left big boots to fill, however I think we have succeeded in filling them with the appointment of Natasha Dochniak who brings such a wealth of experience to the role.

“Natasha is brimming with great ideas and we are excited to see what is in store for Hampshire Fare and its members.”

• https://www.hampshirefare.co.uk/