Ambitious individuals from the poultry sector are being encouraged to apply for the NFU Poultry Industry Programme.
Running since 2012, it offers a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the poultry supply chain and build valuable connections across the sector and is designed to develop the next generation of industry leaders.
Over the course of the programme, participants will hear from leading industry figures, visit businesses across the poultry supply chain, explore the key issues shaping the future of the industry, and face mock journalist interviews during a day of media training.
The programme is aimed at 20- to 40-year-olds who are active in the poultry sector in England or Wales. Applicants must be a member of (or employed by a member of) the NFU or NFU Cymru.
Many PIP alumni have gone on to become influential leaders across the poultry industry; several now sit on the NFU national Poultry Board, including NFU Poultry Board Chair Will Raw.
Free range egg producer Ryan Dakin is a former PIP participant and currently sits on the NFU Poultry Board. He said: “I would urge anyone to apply for the PIP – I’ve never looked back! As a first-time poultry farmer, taking my family farm in a new direction, it opened my eyes to the wider industry and gave me some amazing networking opportunities to learn from others in the sector and to make contacts with like-minded people.
“A highlight for me had to be visiting London and the Houses of Parliament to see the impact of lobbying. Through this, I have gained a deeper insight into the valued work of the NFU and am now able to proudly give back and represent producers on the national poultry board.”
Applications close on Friday 4 September. You can apply via the NFU website.