Uplands farmers are currently facing unprecedented times, with the transition period out of BPS presenting itself in the near future, current Countryside Stewardship schemes not being fit for purpose and many unknown factors around Defra’s new Environmental Land Management scheme (ELMS).
This, alongside the challenges all farmers are facing of helping to reduce green house gas emissions, slow climate change, produce safe and traceable food to some of the highest standards in the world. Navigating these issues will not be easy and there are no simple solutions – but we firmly believe that we should make opportunities from the opportunities to influence change.
We are looking to appoint some appointees who are forward-thinking uplands farmers to help champion the cause of the uplands sector and complement the balance of the existing range of skills and expertise from regional representatives.
In particular, we’re after candidates with knowledge or experience of business planning, agri-environment schemes, carbon capture, tree planting and productive business diversification.
Additional skills or an interest in animal health, livestock productivity, wildfires, blanket bog and data systems would be favourable, as well as a willingness to connect with the wider NFU membership. Applicants should be active beef or sheep producers with a good understanding of the sectors, be forward thinking and have strong communication skills.
Here's how to apply
Interested members should email Harriet Henrick, Livestock Adviser aGFycmlldC5oZW5yaWNrQG5mdS5vcmcudWs= with an up to date CV setting out your experience, skills, interests and personal statement on what you would bring to the board. You should clearly mark any correspondence, including your application with the word ‘Uplands Appointee’ in the subject line.
What you need to know
Successful candidates are appointed for two years and will be expected to attend four meetings a year, typically in our London office.
Attendance at other supply chain, government or NFU meetings as a representative of the forum could be required from time to time.
The closing date for all applications is Monday 14 September 2020 and candidates may be invited to an interview with the selection panel. If successful, the first forum meeting you would be required to attend will be in October. Interviews will take place virtually.
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