Formerly domestic marketing manager at Solid Energy, Williamson is also a Lincoln University Alumni and ex-farmer having worked in the industry before entering the business world.
Williamson says one focus of his new role was to develop the range of professional development opportunities available in the agri-sector and establish Agri One and the two universities as one of the leading facilitator-providers.
He says agri-food and agri-business was ''probably the largest area of opportunity for growth in New Zealand's future business landscape.
''This role is an opportunity to be at the forefront of development of the industry working with the leading players and future visionaries," Williamson says.
Agri One was set up in 2011 with a focus on the two institutions working together to create new market opportunities. It also undertakes a brokering role to introduce agri-food businesses to academics at Lincoln University and Massey University.
Agri One's chair, emeritus Professor Pat Walsh, says he is delighted by Williamson's appointment.
''Mark has had a wealth of commercial experience from diverse sectors of the economy which he will bring to bear at Agri One. His background and expertise position him well to lead it through the next stage of the company's development''.
Williamson starts his new role on November 12.
