RABDF ‘SLEEPING GIANT’ OF DAIRY INDUSTRY, SAYS NEW CEO

Newly appointed Chief Executive of the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF), Hayley Campbell-Gibbons, announced to delegates at this year’s SEMEX conference, her vision for the organisation to become the only dedicated voice of British dairy farmers.

In her inaugural speech as the charity’s leader, at the annual conference held in Glasgow on 12th-14th January, Campbell-Gibbons said: “We are the UK’s sole dairy charity, with an impressive legacy. However, I come here today with a full acknowledgement that the organisation has been living off its legacy for some time now. RABDF is a sleeping giant, and I’m here to wake it up.

“If we are to play a meaningful part in British dairying’s future prospects then we must reboot, refocus and reinvigorate this organisation.”

“My vision is not only for RABDF to regain its voice, but for us to be recognised by farmers, government, the media and the industry as the only dedicated voice of British dairy farmers.”

Recognising the seismic changes that have shaped the industry over the last decade, Campbell-Gibbons used the platform to signal her intentions for the moves she plans to make to take the organisation forward and drive better outcomes for dairy farmers. These included business capability, convening the industry and people.

“We will represent the voices of our members on the issues that impact their ability to run successful, profitable businesses – from supply chain antics and financials to politics, regulation and everything in between.

“At times that will be a voice that amplifies others, at other times we may take the lead, and we will also have the confidence not to speak out on issues where others are better equipped or qualified to do so.

“What we will always do is formulate our position in a way that speaks to, and for, the type of farmer we want to represent. Forward thinking. progressive, successful operators.”

Having signaled her intentions for RABDF, Campbell-Gibbons challenged farmers at the conference to support the organisation, or risk losing it.

“None of this is possible without dairy farmers’ backing. By that I mean membership, participation in our structures and support for our work, if you believe that RABDF and its voice is needed.

Closing her conference speech, Campbell-Gibbons reinforced her commitment for RABDF to be the dedicated voice of British dairy farmers. “We will respect and build on the solid foundations we have as we create something that is fit for today. Make no mistake, RABDF is back.”