The Union of the German Potato Industry (UNIKA) and the German Potato Trade Association (DKHV) have appointed Dr. Illya Kolba as their new joint Managing Director, effective August 1, 2026.

Kolba will represent the interests of Germany’s potato industry alongside the governing bodies of both organizations, engaging with policymakers, businesses and the wider public on behalf of the sector.

He joins the two associations from Germany’s oilseed processing industry association, OVID, where he spent more than seven years as Manager for Public Relations and Public Affairs. In that role, he was responsible for political advocacy, committee coordination and strategic communications at both the German federal and European Union levels.

Kolba brings experience in agricultural and food policy, food security, plant breeding innovation, sustainable agricultural production, agricultural markets and trade policy. He has also worked closely with industry associations and companies across the agricultural value chain and previously managed the secretariat of the Grain Club, coordinating joint industry positions.

“With Dr. Illya Kolba, we are gaining a proven expert in political communication, association management and agricultural policy,” said Olaf Feuerborn, Chairman of UNIKA, and Thomas Herkenrath, President of DKHV. “He combines strategic thinking with a clear understanding of the concerns of our member companies. His experience in representing industry interests at both national and European level will strengthen our associations and provide important momentum for the further development of Germany’s potato industry.”

Commenting on his appointment, Kolba said: “The potato industry is a high-performing and diverse sector with great importance for agriculture, food production and value creation in Germany. I am very much looking forward to working together with the honorary committees, member companies and the teams of both associations to address the challenges ahead and represent the interests of the sector with a strong voice.”

DKHV represents around 160 companies involved in potato trading, packing, peeling, breeding, production, packaging and potato equipment manufacturing. UNIKA serves as the umbrella organization for Germany’s potato sector, bringing together stakeholders across the entire value chain, from breeding and seed potato production to primary production, packing, trade and related industries.