Will, a third-generation poultry farmer, farms in partnership with his father and uncle on a mixed farm comprising 250 acres of combinable crops as well as broilers.
Will previously served as vice-chair of the Poultry Board and is a former participant of the NFU Poultry Industry Programme, winning the PIP award in 2021. He has served as interim Chair since November 2025.
He said: “I'm delighted to be elected to continue as chair on behalf of our poultry members. Our sector produces some of the nation's favourite products, but it's not without its challenges.
"We've seen first-hand the impact avian influenza has had on the sector over the years, and I know I'm not alone in seeing our energy bills rocket with the war in the Middle East driving up the cost of oil and gas.
“We have a strong story to tell on animal welfare and sustainability, and a key focus for myself and the board will be to proactively bring that story to life to a range of audiences.”
NFU Poultry Board Chair Will Raw
“At times like these, it's vital we work closely with the government and the wider supply chain to mitigate the impacts as much as possible and build long-term resilience within poultry businesses.
"We also have a strong story to tell on animal welfare and sustainability, and a key focus for myself and the board will be to proactively bring that story to life to a range of audiences.”
Focus on opportunities
Will Lea has been elected as vice-chair of the board. Will is also a previous PIP participant and served as joint vice-chair from November 2025.
“I’m really pleased to have been elected as vice-chair of the national Poultry Board and to have the opportunity to support Will as chair.
“The poultry sector is facing many challenges which we need to navigate, from disease risk to labour availability. As well as seeking solutions to these issues, I want to ensure we focus on the many opportunities open to our members, not least the increasing demand for British poultry meat and eggs.
“As an active egg producer, I’m excited to help drive the work of the Board forward and represent our members as best I can with the government and the many different stakeholders from across the supply chain.”
“I want to ensure we focus on the many opportunities open to our members, not least the increasing demand for British poultry meat and eggs.”
NFU Poultry Board Vice-chair Will Lea
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