The British arable sector is embarking on one of the most important periods of time in a generation. A large population puts good demand on our doorstep, but we remain subject to the vagaries of the world market. The industry is vital in providing safe, affordable food as well as delivering environmental services to society.
The next two years will be instrumental in shaping the detailed future of agriculture, food and environmental policy with industry pragmatism key to finding workable solutions for all.
Forward-thinking English and Welsh farmers are needed by the NFU to help champion the cause of our combinable crop producers. In order to complement and balance the existing range of skills and expertise on the board, the NFU is looking to appoint four farmer members as appointees to the national combinable crops board.
In particular, we're after candidates with willingness to share their technical know-how and help develop policy expertise from one or more of the following areas:
- Direct marketing and co-operative groups with supply chain knowledge
- Production standards (beyond Red Tractor)
- Technical and/or commercial knowledge of crop inputs including crop protection and various categories of fertiliser
- Seed production
- Rural development and agri-environment programmes
- Renewable energy
- Applied crop/soil research and on farm innovation
- Integrated Farm Management - delivering a rounded approach to managing pests, diseases and weeds
Board agendas are wide-ranging and potential applicants must demonstrate a sound understanding of the policy and trade issues affecting the arable (cereals, oilseeds and pulses) industry. A willingness to connect with the NFU membership network is essential.
Applicants should be active arable crop producers with a good understanding of the sectors and strong communication skills.
Interested?
Interested members should contact chief combinable crops adviser Jack Watts (amFjay53YXR0c0BuZnUub3JnLnVr) with an up-to-date CV setting out experience, skills, interests and what you think you will bring to the board. You should clearly mark any correspondence, including your application with the words ‘Combinable crops board’ in the subject line.
What you need to know
Successful candidates are appointed for two years and will be expected to attend six meetings a year, typically at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire or in London, plus the NFU Conference and at least one of the events, CropTech or Cereals. Attendance at other supply chain, government or NFU meetings as a representative of the board will be required from time to time.
In return you will receive an honorarium, paid monthly, and reimbursement of reasonable expenses.
The closing date for all applications is 5pm Wednesday 28 March 2018. Candidates may be invited to an interview with the selection panel on Tuesday 17 April 2018 at Stoneleigh. If successful, the first board meeting you would be required to attend is on Wednesday 9 May 2018.
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