FORMER Essex farm manager Adam Scott is coming back to the county in a key NFU role.

Adam will be working on behalf of NFU members as Essex County Adviser, giving them advice and guidance on policy issues, coordinating local activity, and ensuring their views are heard.

His previous experience includes managing a mixed dairy and arable farm in the county, but he swapped cows for commuting in 2000 when he joined the Food Standards Agency in London. He then spent five years with specialist agri-food business consultants European Food and Farming Partnerships before joining the NFU.

“I’ve experienced the role that the NFU plays from both the farming side and Government perspective and I have the highest regard for the quality of work it delivers on behalf of its members,” he said. “I’ve always lived in Essex and the chance to be part of that team, working closely with farmers and growers across the county, is a great opportunity for me to help develop and promote the industry that is in my blood.”

After working on a number of farms in East Anglia, Adam graduated in Agricultural Technology from Harper Adams University College in 1985. During his time with the Food Standards Agency he worked on GM foods and then on issues surrounding food and feed hygiene.

“This insight into the machinery of Government showed the importance of the role trade associations have to play. I am delighted to have joined the NFU to ensure that the voice of members across Essex can be heard and their views considered,” he said.

Adam will be introduced to members at the NFU’s annual county meeting, taking place at the YFC Centre, Chelmsford on 15 November with guest speaker Adam Quinney, NFU vice-president.

His priorities in his new role include strengthening the connection between the NFU and its members, supporting county officeholders in their work and building relationships with the broad range of stakeholders involved with the industry.

NFU regional director Pamela Forbes said: “Our county adviser positions are all about listening to, and working with, members in the heart of their community and striving to make a difference on their behalf.

“Adam’s extensive knowledge and experience, as well as his passion for agriculture, will prove invaluable and he will be a real asset to this team.”