A new ‘Young Board’ comprised of outstanding young talent within the dairy sector has been announced by RABDF.
The Young Board has been created to offer the opportunity for further progression and board-level training unique to the industry. With newly-appointed members all identified through previous involvement with RABDF – either through the Dairy Student or Farm Health Management Awards, or the Entrepreneurs in Dairying programme – the formation of the Young Board is another goal that was outlined at RABDF’s relaunch in March this year.
The initiative has secured robotic giant Lely as its sponsor and Young Board members will visit their Netherlands HQ to observe the running of international management meetings. In addition to this, the board will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the latest automotive products the company have designed.
Mark Brummel, regional director at Lely, says the company is delighted to be involved in a unique project designed to develop some of the industry’s brightest talent, who will be key in driving the sector forward.
Mr Brummel says: “It is imperative to offer training and experience that isn’t ordinarily available if we want to secure a sustainable future for dairy farming. We must remember it is this generation which will be responsible for advances in labour, technology, innovation and automation.”
RABDF managing director Matthew Knight says as per its manifesto, RABDF is committed to investing in the youth and is excited to see what the Board can deliver on behalf of the industry.
Mr Knight says: “Having personally met all of the candidates I can say without doubt their passion and enthusiasm for dairying is truly admirable. They are a credit to the sector and I am confident they will be key figures in the industry over the upcoming years.
“We look forward to their participation in many activities this year. Key topics such as labour, AMR and Brexit will be at the forefront of discussions and will then be applied to a self-chosen project for each of the Young Board members throughout the coming 12 months.”
Young Board member Lindsey Carnell says: “This is a real opportunity to represent young British dairy farmers. A prosperous dairy industry relies on the input and enthusiasm from the next generation, in partnership with guidance and support from those already established. I believe the Young Board will allow this development and in turn encourage more young people to consider a career in the dairy sector.”
Andrew Harrison, also on the Young Board, says he’s looking forward to being involved with the concept as it has real potential to help drive the industry through one of its most challenging periods.
“It’s also exciting to be involved with like-minded individuals who are looking to make a difference” says Mr Harrison.
If you are passionate about the dairy industry and want to be involved in its future through the Young Board please contact victoriachomiak@rabdf.co.uk for full information and opportunities. Current candidates have already been selected but there will be the opportunity for new entrants to join future terms.
Board members include:
Edward Towers, Brades Farm
Andrew Harrison, I’Anson Bros
Lindsey Carnell, St Katherines Farm
Rachel Beasley, Alltech
Richard Beattie, R & A Beattie Farms