From Insurance to Desert Farming: Adam Tyler’s Unconventional Journey in Horticulture

In this episode of The MorePeople Podcast, Managing Director Richard Hanwell sits down with Adam Tyler, Head Grower at S&A Produce, to explore one of the most unconventional journeys into horticulture. From the world of insurance in London to building a farm in the Israeli desert, Adam’s story is one of curiosity, risk-taking, and continuous learning.

This fascinating conversation covers his career path, the challenges facing modern growers, and why mentorship and knowledge-sharing are critical to the future of the industry.

A Career That Started Far From Farming

Adam’s route into horticulture was anything but traditional.

Starting his career as a Lloyd’s insurance broker in London, his early working life revolved around the fast-paced environment of the city. But a personal connection changed everything, leading him to Israel and, ultimately, into farming.

At just 24 years old, Adam found himself in the Negev desert, presented with the opportunity to build a farm from scratch.

“There were eight flags in the ground… and that was it. That’s where we started.”

With no prior farming experience, he began by quite literally clearing the land - removing rocks for months before planting his first crop of peppers.

Learning from the Ground Up

Thrown into an entirely new world, Adam credits mentorship as the single most important factor in his early development.

Assigned an experienced mentor and surrounded by skilled farmers, he learned everything on the job, from irrigation and crop management to problem-solving in a harsh desert environment.

“It all starts with having someone there to guide you and letting you make mistakes.”

This hands-on learning, combined with collaboration from those around him, laid the foundation for his future success.

From Peppers to Soft Fruit

Adam’s journey didn’t stop in the desert.

A chance conversation opened the door to the soft fruit sector, where he gained exposure to strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, learning not just how to grow them, but the science behind breeding and production.

This transition highlights a key theme throughout his career: being open to opportunity and willing to learn.

“Networking, asking questions, and knowing your limitations, that’s what moves you forward.”

Bringing Global Experience Back to the UK

After years in Israel, Adam returned to the UK with a unique skill set combining practical farming knowledge with exposure to advanced irrigation systems, biological control methods, and global growing practices.

Now Head Grower at S&A Produce in Kent, he’s applying that experience in a highly innovative and fast-evolving environment.

From water recycling systems to advanced filtration and nutrient management, modern horticulture is becoming increasingly technical and data-driven.

“It’s a whole new level of precision - balancing water, nutrients, and plant health in ways that weren’t possible before.”

The Power of Knowledge Sharing

One of the biggest advantages in today’s industry is access to global networks.

Through international grower groups, Adam collaborates with peers across Europe sharing insights, solving challenges, and learning from each other’s experiences.

“It helps you get to the future faster - you don’t have to make every mistake yourself.”

This openness and collaboration are helping growers adapt to ongoing challenges, including:

• Changing regulations

• Loss of crop protection actives

• Increasing technical complexity

Developing the Next Generation: NewGen

Alongside his day-to-day role, Adam is passionate about developing future talent.

Through initiatives like NewGen, young professionals are given the opportunity to:

• Visit different businesses across the supply chain

• Learn beyond their immediate roles

• Build networks across the industry

The goal is simple: create well-rounded future leaders.

“It’s about giving people exposure and helping them understand the bigger picture.”

Bridging Practical and Academic Knowledge

A particularly interesting insight from Adam is the importance of combining practical experience with academic learning.

While many new entrants come into the industry with strong academic backgrounds, real-world application remains crucial.

“I learned everything practically, but when you combine that with academic knowledge, that’s where real progress happens.”

This blend of skills is essential for tackling the increasingly complex challenges facing horticulture.

Attracting Talent Into the Industry

Like many in the sector, Adam believes more needs to be done to showcase the opportunities available within horticulture.

From growing and operations to commercial and technical roles, the industry offers diverse and rewarding career paths, but awareness remains a challenge.

“The more we promote it, the MorePeople we’ll attract and the stronger the industry becomes.”

Final Thoughts: A Bright Future Ahead

Despite the challenges, Adam is optimistic about the future.

With stronger collaboration, better training, and a new generation of talented individuals entering the sector, the industry is well positioned for continued growth.

“The future’s in safe hands - probably safer than it’s ever been.”

Adam’s journey is a powerful reminder that there’s no single path into horticulture and that sometimes, the most unconventional routes lead to the greatest opportunities.

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