Agriculture

​A few days have passed since the Cereals Event 2025 in Lincolnshire, and what an event it was! As a recruitment consultancy that lives and breathes the rural and agricultural sectors, this event is always a big one for us.  With over 400 exhibitors and thousands of visitors, Cereals once again proved why it’s the go-to event for arable farming in the UK. For us, it was more than just a chance to see the latest kit or catch a few talks (though we did plenty of that too!). It was about staying close to the pulse of the industry, meeting the people who make it tick, and understanding where things are headed – so we can keep doing what we do best: connecting great people with great opportunities.The Big Picture: Change, Challenge, and InnovationThere was a sense of unease in the air this year. From food security and climate resilience to the role of tech in farming, the conversations were big and bold. NFU President Tom Bradshaw kicked things off with a strong message: food security should be treated as a national defence issue. That really set the tone, and he isn’t wrong. The #backafarmernotstarmer flags elicited more than a few wry smiles, and Steve Reed and Daniel Zeichner were conspicuous only by their absence, though this wasn’t necessarily surprising. I can’t imagine them feeling entirely comfortable in a field full of people that their government seems to be hell-bent on kicking at every turn.  But amongst the restlessness, there was also a feeling of optimism and forward thinking. We saw some incredible innovations – from drone spraying demos to AI-powered crop analytics – and it’s clear that the sector is evolving fast. It’s now less about who can plough the straightest furrow and more about ‘who can adapt to technology’. For us, that means the types of roles we’re recruiting for are changing too. There’s growing demand for people who can bridge the gap between traditional farming and modern tech, and who understand both the land and the data.Hannah Cuthbert at the Careers Luncheon A standout moment for our team was seeing our very own Hannah Cuthbert speak at the Careers Luncheon. She joined a panel of industry voices to talk about career pathways in agriculture, and she absolutely nailed it. Hannah spoke passionately about the variety of roles available in the sector today – not just on farms, but in agronomy, sustainability, tech, and rural business. She highlighted how important it is to support young people coming into the industry and to show them that the sector is full of opportunity, purpose, and innovation. We couldn’t have been prouder. It was a brilliant reminder of why we do what we do: helping people find meaningful careers in a sector that really matters.Reconnecting with Clients and Candidates One of the best parts of Cereals is the people. We had so many great conversations – some planned, some spontaneous – with clients, candidates, and industry friends. It was lovely to catch up with familiar faces and to meet new ones too. We spoke with candidates who are thinking about their next move, and with businesses that are growing and looking for the right talent to take them forward. These chats are invaluable. They help us understand what’s happening on the ground, what challenges people are facing, and where the opportunities are.And let’s be honest. There’s something about chatting face-to-face, in a field, with a coffee in hand, that just can’t be replicated over email or Zoom.The Great Big (Green) Elephant in the Field Of course, we couldn’t leave Cereals 2025 without mentioning the new John Deere 9RX – a true beast of a machine that drew plenty of attention. It’s undeniably impressive in scale and engineering but seeing it up close only reinforced my feelings outlined in my recent blog post, “How Big Is Too Big?”. For UK farming, where field sizes and terrain often demand a bit more agility over brute strength, the 9RX feels like a mismatch. It’s a marvel, yes, but it’s hard to see it being practical for most British operations. The horsepower race continues, but I remain unconvinced that bigger always means better, especially in our corner of the world.What We Took Away Here are a few things that really stood out to us this year:Food and energy security are now front and centre. This is going to shape policy, funding, and hiring in a big way – especially in areas like soil management, biofuels, and supply chain resilience.Tech is transforming the sector. From robotics to data analytics, the future of farming is digital. That means new skills, new roles, and new opportunities.Young people are key. There was a real focus on the next generation, and it’s clear we need to keep investing in them – not just with training, but with clear career pathways and support.Climate resilience is critical. Farmers are under pressure to adapt, and that’s driving demand for expertise in sustainability, regenerative practices, and environmental compliance.Business skills matter more than ever. As farms become more complex and diversified, there’s a growing need for people who can think strategically and manage operations like any other business.Why Events Like This Matter to Us For us, Cereals isn’t just a day out. It’s a chance to listen, learn, and stay connected. It helps us to:Keep up with what’s happening in the industryUnderstand what our clients and candidates needSpot trends and opportunities earlyStrengthen relationships and build new onesIt also reminds us why we love working in this space. Agriculture is full of passionate, innovative, and resilient people, and we’re proud to play a part in helping them thrive.Looking AheadWe left Cereals 2025 feeling informed and energised. There’s a lot of change happening in the sector, but also a lot of opportunity, and we’re excited to help our clients and candidates navigate it all.If we saw you at the event, thank you for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. And if we missed you, we’d love to catch up. Whether you’re hiring, job hunting, or just want to chat about what’s next for the industry, we’re here. Let’s keep the conversation going.Contact me | Max Johnson

​Lately, the UK agricultural market has seen a significant rise in the horsepower of tractors. This prolificacy of heavy hitters of the market has sparked a debate on our desk here at MorePeople: how big is too big? With the introduction of the John Deere 9RX 830 pushing out a bonkers 913 max horsepower - enough to make even the most stoic pit viper wearing, mullet sporting Agri-bro weak at the knees - the question has never been more relevant.When the 9RX 830 landed onto the pages of the Farmers Weekly last month, I’m certain low whistles of appreciation emanated from farm offices and houses all across the UK. Though how many of those, I wonder, were thinking “yes, the 9RX 640 sitting in the shed out there really just isn’t enough”? Now, don’t get me wrong, I can appreciate ‘big kit’ as much as the next person in the sector. Yet I can’t help but feel the introduction of this behemoth is a bit unnecessary on our little island. The average power of tractors registered in the UK has been steadily increasing. In 2023, the average power reached 173.9 horsepower, just over 5 horsepower higher than the previous year. The growth is particularly evident in the higher horsepower ranges, with tractors in the 241-320 horsepower category seeing a 29% increase in registrations. While the 9RX 830 will undoubtedly excel in specific environments, its utility in the UK is somewhat limited. Our agricultural landscape is diverse, with varying soil types and farm/field sizes. High-horsepower tractors are most beneficial in areas with heavy clay soils, where pulling through compacted soil requires significant power, but also in large, open fields where their ability to pull wide implements can be fully utilised. This grunt I can see being ideal for prairie-style farming in the USA, Australia or Eastern Europe, or areas with huge fields draped across undulating landscapes (the hills and hollows of Washington State spring to mind) but that’s got to be it.  For many UK farms, a tractor with such high horsepower surely has to be overkill. Most farms would not require the immense power of the new 9RX. In these environments, a more ‘modest’ tractor, such as the Case Quadtrac with its measly range-topping 715 horsepower, would be more than sufficient. And that’s before you even start to consider getting these machines from farm to field. The big 9RX has a base weight of 33-and-a-half tonnes and a ballasted weight north of 38 tonnes. Add to that the 10-or-so tonnes which would be hooked up to the back of the thing, and some will question whether the driver would need to be licensed, similar to STGO/overweight trucks. Then add into the mix the roads and bridges equipment has to negotiate even in those parts of the UK with the biggest fields and you soon think the odds are stacking up against machinery this big.I remember being surprised at the range of implements that could be pulled by more modestly powered tractors. At home, our biggest tractor, boasting 200hp, more than adequately manages a 4m seed drill, a 6m disc cultivator or a 6 furrow plough. We, being a mixed operation in Northumberland, obviously aren’t in the target audience of John Deere with their latest range addition, but this experience has made me appreciate the balance between power and practicality. And on some larger operations I’ve worked on, a Quadtrac 620 easily coped with a 12m Kockerling Allrounder and a Vaderstad TopDown 700, unless pulling up a significant hill.Anyway, on that note, what actually requires 913 horsepower? I’m no expert on the UK implement market but I’m pretty sure the most horsepower intensive implements in the UK are those in the deep tillage category – think Vaderstad TopDown, Kuhn Performer, Sumo Quatro, etc, and after a quick google, the most their respective specs state as a requirement is 700hp. This begs the question – what is the big green crawler going to be used for that other high-HP crawlers wouldn’t be able to handle? I suppose John Deere may be angling toward providing the capability for manufacturers to create even bigger implements, but that’s a lot of chicken-and-egg supposition. The final nail in the coffin in my mind is the topic of the cash you need to part with to have one of these rumble into your yard. The top-of-the-range 9RX will set you back a pretty terrifying £840k, with no added extras. If we compare this to the top of the range Quadtrac, which chimes in at a smidge under £600k un-spec’d, it’ll surely be tough to justify the extra £240k? (yes, I know almost all will be on H-P agreements/leased, but the argument remains). And with farming finances being in the parlous state they are at the moment, if Joe public catches wind how much the machinery sat in farmyards is worth, especially with the new JD present, it’ll be hard to continue to convince them to be ‘on our side’. Anyway, I’ll be in the presence of the new 9RX at Cereals this year – perhaps I’ll be won over when I see one in person. Those who aren’t going, maybe you’ll have to wait until a Yorkshire hill farmer gets one for his ‘awld Marshall side discharge spreader in a few years time. Drop me a message if you are attending Cereals this year, it would be great to meet and/ or catch up!Contact me  

​The recent warning from Save British Farming (SBF) about the UK's food supply disruption is a frightening reminder of the fragility of our food system. During their recent event at Westminster, farmers and industry experts highlighted the urgent need for government action to prevent severe disruptions to food supplies.Key Concerns RaisedGovernment Inaction: Former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly noted that the government is underestimating the potential impact of food supply disruptions and seemingly not taking into consideration the severity of the current and future risks.Food Security as National Security: SBF founder Liz Webster poignantly stated, "An army marches on its stomach, and those who feed the army – farmers, food workers, manufacturers – must be protected too."As someone who is passionate about the UK’s agricultural sector and recruiting within it, I resonate with the concerns raised personally. The challenges faced by farmers are not just about crops and livestock; they're about the togetherness of our society and economy. The Government's acknowledgement that "food security is national security" in its 2024 general election manifesto is a step in the right direction, but actions must follow words, and I feel they have taken many steps backwards from that statement and are going against this! We may not be feeling the issue just yet, however it won't be long. Actions need to be taken now. In my conversations with clients and candidates, the recurring theme is the struggle to adapt to forever-changing policies and economic pressures. The resilience of our farmers is incredible, but they cannot do it alone. It's important for stakeholders at all levels to collaborate and support the backbone of our food system. Every aspect of the food supply chain is affected by this, therefore, strength is in numbers, and those in the industry must work together, not against each other.If you're facing challenges in the agricultural sector or wish to discuss these issues further, please don't hesitate to reach out. Let's work together to ensure a stable and secure food future for the UK.Contact me, Ryan Bainborough

​I recently had the privilege of spending two eye-opening days in Shropshire, diving deep into the inner workings of our food supply chain — from the soil to the supermarket shelf. It was a brilliant experience that brought to life just how much effort, precision, and teamwork it takes to deliver fresh food to our tables.This was part of the Future Farmer Programme I’m currently undertaking with Harper Adams University and sponsored by Tesco. Applications have just opened for next years cohort, and I’d really recommend the programme to anyone in the sector. You can find out more and apply here.Day 1: From Field to Factory at PDM ProduceOur journey began at PDM Produce (UK) Ltd, where an astonishing 60 bags of salad are produced every minute. We traced the lifecycle of salad from planting in the fields to operations in the factory where produce is washed, packed, and prepared for distribution.The scale and efficiency of the process were impressive, but what really stood out was the level of detail and care behind every step. From precision planting to temperature-controlled logistics, it was a powerful reminder of how much coordination goes on behind the scenes.Day 2: Yoghurt ProductionThe second day kicked off at the Müller UK & Ireland facility in Market Drayton, where 15 million pots of yoghurt are produced each day. Watching the storage of incoming milk into the factory to produce an array of yoghurt products in large-scale production and quality control was really interesting.We then visited a local dairy farm with 1,300 units, which supplies milk to Müller. Seeing the farm-to-factory connection first-hand made it clear just how interconnected and essential each link in the chain really is. To round off the trip, we stopped at a Tesco Superstore, where we saw the final leg of the journey – the product reaching the consumer. It was fascinating to see the supermarket from a different perspective following our previous visits. It was interesting to understand how even the smallest changes in logistics or presentation can ripple through the entire supply chain!Leadership in Agriculture: Lessons from Izak van HeerdenWe were also lucky to hear from Izak van Heerden, who shared insights from his travels with the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust, focusing on leadership and emotional intelligence in the agricultural sector. Three key takeaways that resonated deeply:1. Authenticity - Lead with who you are. Be honest and be real.2. People remember how you make them feel - Leadership is about relationships.3. Ubuntu - "Humanity to all". A reminder that empathy and collaboration can move mountains.Izak also spoke about issues in agricultural recruitment and, as those in the industry, how we can tackle these problems and overcome them. I’m incredibly grateful for the experience, the people we met, and the chance to see our food system and enitre supply chain in action. Remember, applications are now open for next year's cohort! Feel free to reach out with any questions. 📩 hannah.cuthbert@morepeople.co.ukContact me!​

​With rainfall scarce this spring and upland soils already drying out, wildfire risk is becoming an urgent concern across the UK. As summer approaches, how we manage moorlands, whether through traditional grouse shooting practices or natural moorland restoration, has never been more relevant.Few topics spark as much debate as moorland management in the UK's upland landscapes, particularly the contrast between areas managed for driven grouse shooting and those following a path of natural moorland restoration. At the heart of this discussion lies a tension between conservation, land use, rural culture and environmental risks, especially concerning wildfire resilience, biodiversity, and community livelihoods.So, what exactly are the differences between these approaches and how do they compare in terms of ecological health, wildfire risk, and opportunities for people living and working in the uplands?What are the differences between grouse-managed moors and natural moorland restoration?Grouse-managed moors are upland areas deliberately maintained for driven red grouse shooting. Landowners apply techniques like controlled heather burning (muirburn), predator control, and selective vegetation management to enhance grouse populations and maintain open moorland habitats. This model is closely tied to rural traditions, game shooting economics, and seasonal employment.In contrast, natural moorland restoration, often associated with rewilding or low-intervention conservation, is guided by ecological processes rather than intensive human control. Here, burning and predator control are minimal or absent, with a focus on peatland restoration, hydrological balance, and allowing vegetation to evolve over time. These landscapes aim to support biodiversity, carbon storage, and natural resilience.Wildfire Risk: Controlled Burning vs Natural ResilienceOn grouse moors, muirburn is a key tool used to reduce wildfire risk by creating a patchwork of young and old heather, which acts as a natural firebreak. By regularly removing dry, woody vegetation, land managers aim to prevent the buildup of fuel that can lead to severe fires. Additionally, the human presence on estates, such as gamekeepers, means faster detection and response to potential wildfires. Meanwhile, natural moorland restoration approaches wildfire prevention through a different lens. Instead of regular burning, they promote the rewetting of peatlands and the restoration of sphagnum-rich bogs, which retain moisture and naturally resist ignition. While this reduces long-term fire risk, unmanaged vegetation can pose a short-term hazard if peat remains dry from past drainage or in drought conditions. However, the structural diversity of these landscapes, mixing wetland, scrub and open moor, can slow fire spread across larger areas.Biodiversity: Managed Habitat vs Wild ComplexityIn terms of biodiversity, grouse moors tend to favour a narrower range of species that thrive in open, heather-dominated habitats. Rotational burning supports early successional plants and benefits birds like red grouse, curlew, and golden plover. Predator control further boosts nesting success for these ground-nesting species. However, the ecosystem may become overly simplified, limiting the presence of woodland edge species, mammals, and invertebrates that require more varied or older vegetation.In contrast, natural moorland restoration allows biodiversity to develop through natural succession. As vegetation matures and becomes more structurally complex, often including grasses, shrubs and wetlands, a broader range of species emerges. These moors can support rare peatland plants, amphibians, raptors and invertebrates. With minimal interference, predator-prey dynamics re-establish, helping to build more balanced and resilient ecosystems. While some open ground species may decline with scrub encroachment, overall species richness and ecological function often increase.How This Affects Rural EmploymentGrouse moors play a significant role in supporting rural employment, offering roles like gamekeepers, beaters, estate staff and hospitality workers during the shooting season. These jobs are often locally rooted and provide apprenticeships and training for land-based skills. In remote areas with limited economic alternatives, these estates can be lifelines for young people seeking meaningful employment and housing opportunities.At the same time, natural moorland restoration is giving rise to new employment opportunities in conservation, habitat restoration, eco-tourism and scientific monitoring. Rewilding and peatland restoration projects increasingly hire ecologists, land managers and carbon specialists, often through NGO's or public schemes. These jobs may offer more consistent year-round employment and align with long-term climate and biodiversity goals. However, the transition between these sectors must be managed carefully to ensure that communities are not left behind and that new skills are supported.Could There be a Middle Ground?As climate change intensifies and biodiversity loss accelerates, both grouse and natural moorland restoration approaches offer lessons and limitations. Grouse moors provide immediate fire control and habitat for some upland species, but risk environmental costs if mismanaged. Natural moorland restoration offers a vision of ecological renewal and long-term resilience, but may require time, investment and public support to reach full potential. Many experts argue the future lies in blending both models, using targeted muirburn where needed, restoring peatlands, supporting natural regeneration and ensuring that rural communities benefit through employment, education, and sustainable land stewardship. This hybrid approach may offer the best path forward for resilient, biodiverse and economically viable uplands.Whether managed for grouse or undergoing natural moorland restoration, upland moors are a vital part of the UK’s ecological and cultural fabric. As our understanding of wildfire risk, biodiversity, and rural livelihoods evolves, so too must the conversation about upland management. A future-fit approach will be one that blends evidence, inclusivity, and adaptability, ensuring that these wild, windswept places remain vibrant, valuable, and alive.If you are considering your employment options within the rural sector - whether it be some of the roles I listed above, or forestry and farming opportunities, do reach out so we can discuss them in more detail.Rachel@morepeople.co.ukContact me

As a Recruitment Consultant within the Rural Sector, I spend a great deal of time discussing certain barriers and challenges that our clients may be facing. Recently, I have been speaking with Poultry Farmers, and the same topic is brought up without hesitation…bird flu. It is clearly having a major impact, so I thought it was a good time to collate together how bird flu is affecting the food and agriculture sector and subsequently how recruitment is moulding to the unique needs of the poultry industry.The Current Picture in the UKBird flu or Avian Influenza has been dominating headlines for good reason. The virus has continued to affect both wild and domestic bird populations. More recently, it has even been detected in other species. In March 2025, The Guardian reported the world’s first known case of bird flu in sheep, and just a month earlier, four seals were found dead from the virus along the Norfolk coast. The boundaries of this disease are evidently shifting.Back in November 2024, the UK government confirmed the presence of the H5N5 strain in commercial poultry, triggering culling and the creation of protection zones. The following February, the country faced a grim milestone — seabird populations in some areas had dropped by as much as 75% due to the virus. This sharp decline underscored just how deeply bird flu is affecting wildlife, farming, and biodiversity.The Current Biosecurity Landscape (as of April 2025)To combat the ongoing threat, the UK government has implemented several wide-reaching biosecurity measures:Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ): The entire UK is under this zone, requiring strict biosecurity protocols for all bird keepers.Mandatory Housing Measures: Certain regions (including Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, and more) require all kept birds to be housed indoors to prevent wild bird contact.Enhanced Biosecurity Protocols: These include rodent control, disinfection procedures, using protective clothing and equipment, and limiting access to bird areas.DEFRA continues to advise vigilance, urging bird keepers to monitor for symptoms and report any concerns immediately. Despite the low public health risk, authorities are closely monitoring the situation in case of virus mutations that could increase human transmission risk.Operational and Economic Consequences on Businesses:The outbreak of bird flu has resulted in hundreds of thousands of birds being culled, affecting both egg and meat supply. This, in turn, has increased consumer prices and catalysed supply chain disruption. Housing orders, pest control, and additional protective equipment have created a real financial burden, especially for smaller producers. Additionally, export restrictions and insurance difficulties have already added pressure on stretched operations. Not to mention labour and welfare issues…staff shortages, mental strain, and animal welfare concerns are increasingly common as birds are kept indoors for extended periods of time.Vaccination: Is It the Future?Vaccination is a hot topic right now, with countries like France, China, and the Netherlands making strides in mass poultry vaccination strategies. Notably, the Dutch government began a pilot vaccination program in March 2025 following the promising field trial results, which showed that vaccinated birds remained disease-free and did not transmit the virus.Still, there are caveats: vaccination can complicate surveillance efforts and affect export eligibility, so countries like the UK and U.S. are proceeding cautiously.What Does This Mean for Recruitment?All of this change — from disease control to vaccination strategy — is having a real impact on recruitment within the poultry industry. We are seeing candidates who are skilled in Biosecurity, managing disease risk, adhering to safety protocols and implementing prevention strategies are highly sought after. Moreover, professionals who display a range of operational flexibility are also in demand. With the uncertainty of bird flu, Farm Managers are looking to hire those who are open to flexibility and not scared of change. In particular, changes in regulation or environment, like shifting from the outdoor to indoor housing of animals during outbreaks is key. With instances of bird-to-human transmission, such as the confirmed case of H5N1 in a UK poultry worker in January 2025, there's a growing emphasis on training, PPE use, and occupational health policies. Candidates must be aware of this and be willing to undertake efficient training.Unfortunately, the negative implications of outbreaks and culls can lead to temporary layoffs or a reduced hiring demand. As the situation continues to evolve, so too does the type of talent the industry needs. It's more important than ever for employers to hire not just for experience, but for resilience, awareness, and adaptability. On that note, if you do need assistance in hiring talent who will be equipped for what the future may hold, please reach out to me! ​Rachel Richardson | Rural Recruitment Consultantrachel@morepeople.co.uk07701 387 732Contact meGet to know me 

The short-term let market has transformed the way we stay-cation, opening doors (literally) to incredible stays in the UK countryside, from cosy cottages to quirky converted barns. By offering travellers convenient, private short stays, it has created both opportunities and challenges for local communities. On the upside, in some cases, short-term lets have provided a lifeline for rural homeowners and small businesses. Renting out spare rooms or holiday properties is a (relatively) easy way to generate extra income in areas where jobs are often scarce. Visitors also spend money in the local economy - pubs, cafes, shops, and attractions - injecting much-needed revenue into the community.  Then there’s the boost to tourism. Lesser-known destinations are now on the map thanks to platforms promoting hidden gems, drawing more people off the beaten track (opinion is divided on whether this is always a positive thing!) These visitors often create a ripple effect, encouraging friends and family to explore these charming spots too. It’s argued that the market for short-term letting has increased the popularity of holidays in the UK, funnelling more money back into the UK economy instead of abroad. It’s generally a win-win for rural and wider-UK tourism. Short-term lets have also contributed to the preservation of our agricultural architectural heritage. Many farm buildings with historical or architectural significance, which might be considered ‘redundant’ in modern farming, have been converted into holiday accommodation, giving them a new lease of life. Without this relatively straightforward route to return on capital - often far outstripping standard ASTs or even outright sale - some could have fallen into disrepair. However, navigating strict planning regulations for such conversions can be a challenge for property owners, though the rewards of restoration are nearly always worth the effort. But not everything is rosy. Housing availability is a key concern; with more homes and newly converted buildings being used as short-term rentals, it has become harder for local families to find affordable housing, straining community ties. Similarly, the conversion of farm steadings into holiday homes takes them out of availability for agricultural use, creating hurdles for new entrants into farming. Young or aspiring farmers need affordable steadings, and smaller farms with slightly outdated facilities are often the perfect place to start. Losing these options poses a risk to the sustainability of the farming sector. Environmental concerns are also mounting. More visitors mean more strain on local resources and infrastructure, from water and waste systems to the erosion of natural landscapes. It is vital to ensure tourism does not harm the very countryside that draws people in. Finally, inconsistent regulations around short-term lets create confusion. While some councils embrace the sector, others are still trying to catch up. Clearer, fairer guidelines could help balance the benefits for property owners with the needs of local communities. The verdict? The short-term let market impact on the UK’s rural economy is a real mixed bag. On the one hand, it has brought in extra cash for locals, boosted tourism, and helped breathe new life into heritage buildings. On the other hand, it has driven up housing costs, put pressure on resources, and sometimes created challenges for the very communities it helps on other occasions. Striking the right balance is crucial, and that means open and honest conversations between communities, councils, and hosts. By working together, we can ensure short-term lets continue to support rural areas without taking away what makes them so special.​On that note, I am here to help with your rural recruitment needs...get in touch for a confidential chat!Max Johnsonmax@morepeople.co.uk01780 480 530

The recent Brassica Conference was a fantastic opportunity to bring together key professionals from across the agricultural industry to discuss the latest developments in technology, research, and market trends. With an impressive lineup of speakers covering a broad range of topics, the event provided valuable insights into the future of the sector.Hannah and I were invited to speak at the event to share insights on recruitment within the agricultural sector. This was an invaluable opportunity to engage with industry professionals, expand our network, and discuss how recruitment challenges and opportunities are shaping the future of agriculture. Beyond our own presentation, the conference offered a wealth of knowledge from experts across different areas of the industry. I felt it was an amazing opportunity to attend due to the networking opportunity,  a chance to give a detailed overview of recruitment to the industry and have the exposure of meeting some incredible people in the industry.  Key Themes from the ConferenceFrom political updates with NFU Deputy President, David Exwood, to robotic advancements in precision agriculture with Tom Beach from Autonomous Agri Solutions, a broad range of industry topics were discussed.Rosemary Collier from the University of Warwickshire presented research which focused on the management of pest insects in horticultural crops using approaches that minimise impact on the environment. Alix Morley from the Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) – shared their ambitious education programme and also highlighted their two annual awareness campaigns – Farm Safety Week and Mind Your Head – helping to make our farms safer places to both work and live.Dan Morley from Veg Power spoke about their campaign and how it reaches into the homes of 46 million people and the primary schools of 1,000,000 pupils, with 59% of parents and kids saying they ate more vegetables as a result. The campaign has so far increased vegetable sales by 1.4 billion children’s portions. Veg Power also supports parents to improve their children’s diet through their Simply Veg channels.I learnt that the industry is incredibly passionate about growing quality produce in the UK. David Exwood from the NFU really stood out to me. He spoke passionately and optimistically about the industry despite the current challenges of the political and agricultural climate. Our role at the conferenceHannah and I shared insights into recruitment within the agriculture industry along with the challenges and opportunities faced. We also spoke about succession planning and why it is vital in agriculture, whilst covering topics such as best practices and how to attract the best talent.A key takeaway from the conference is how the current challenges and negative press surrounding the industry make it less appealing to young people. Removing these barriers encourages deeper reflection on how to attract top talent at a grassroots level. Other key challenges discussed included work-life balance, well-being, and salaries—all of which play a crucial role in drawing talent to the industry. If my team and I can help you in the world of agricultural recruitment, then please get in touch!Ryan Bainborough | Team Manager | Agriculture & RuralRyan@morepeople.co.uk | 01780 480 530 Get to know me here!

Rae recently caught up with David Watson, a Seed Specialist at Nickerson Seeds to hear how the first 14 months have been in his new job role. Interviewing professionals within the sectors we recruit for provides us with valuable, first-hand insights into the realities of work. It helps us to share what necessary skills are required for success, whilst casting light onto the day-to-day requirements of the job. We find these resources to be useful for those wanting to get their foot into this industry; what better way to learn about a role than from someone working it?What is your role and how long have you been in this area of work?I have been working in the Agricultural industry for 42 years – working in the supply chain for the last 6 years. I had a brief spell in the biomass industry but now I have been with Nickerson Seeds as a seed specialist for 10 months. What does a typical day look like in your role?I start by checking overnight messages which include the sales figures from the previous day. I usually take care of any admin which includes customer relationship management (CRM) and then I am off out onto the farm to talk to farmers to advise, and hopefully sell, the correct seed for their situation. Some mornings are earlier starts, with no admin depending on travelling distance. The role involves a lot of driving so it is important to plan the best logistical route, although in fairness this can be quite difficult depending on priorities etc. Depending on the amount of travel, I can visit between 4 and 8 farmers a day although 4 is more realistic. On arrival home, I always check orders that I might have put in remotely and try to do any relevant CRM.Usually, one day a week is spent in the office, splitting the day however is convenient. For example, 2 half days but about 8hrs /week to plan, complete functional admin like car mileage, chase up orders and keeping abreast of new products and techniques, internal meetings etc. At busier times this might double to 2 days / week.What skills, qualifications or experience are essential for someone in your position?A real interest in and understanding of agricultural production is probably the main attribute for anyone in this role over and above any qualification. Dealing with new varieties and crop systems, as well as changes to support, means that you do need to accept that it is a case of constant learning and continuous development. After that, you will need a strong personality with the ability to speak politely and authoritatively about how the Nickerson portfolio can enhance the grower's system and improve their profitability. Not being afraid of walking up an unknown farm drive can be quite daunting, but in reality, it is very rare not to receive a warm welcome even without an appointment.  In terms of formal qualifications, I do have a BSc in Agriculture, as well as BASIS & FACTS accreditation. There is no doubt that these qualifications do help towards continuous development, but also being perceived as “knowledgeable” by the customer, and showing you are able to discuss matters on an equal footing to competition and agronomists is equally important.What are the biggest challenges you face in your job?The biggest challenge would be the ‘competition’ who are often cheaper. This makes it difficult to put over our message of a superior brand, selling superior seed, with a superior service, mainly because of the difficult economic position agriculture finds itself in. It becomes difficult to market at a premium price. The other challenge is the constant changes to agricultural support mechanisms favouring some production systems and disadvantaging others - as well as changes to laws and regulations. A bigger challenge, and opportunity, is of course climate change!What do you enjoy most about your job?From being part of a widely skilled team, working from the inception of a new genetic material, all the way through to selling this material on the farm as seed. This means that I can speak to a range of different colleagues who are passionate about their jobs and can give boundless help, advice and support. Also just being out on a farm – especially on a cracking day. Talking to farmers looking after their animals and crops whilst having that feeling that they value your advice and are pleased with the products you have supplied. What are the career opportunities in this industry?There are many opportunities to move higher up the ladder both at Nickerson and the parent company Limagrain. In my situation, I enjoy my job to the point where promotion within Nickerson isn’t necessarily of much interest to me, but I am more than happy to take on other areas of responsibility. For example, I cover Northumberland - Durham – Cumbria –& N.Yorks,  I also look after the northern area vining pea business from East Yorkshire up to Perth. ​Rae recruits for a variety of commercial positions within the agriculture, horticulture and garden industries – Seed Sales Specialists included!If you are looking for your next adventure then get in touch with Rae, you can reach her on 01780 480 530 or rae@morepeople.co.uk ​