The Lincolnshire Agricultural Society and Lincolnshire Events Centre are headed in a new direction thanks to the appointment of fresh leadership.
Jayne Southall, who has worked at the Lincolnshire Showground for more than five years, has been appointed Director.
Formerly the Finance Manager, Jayne has already held the overall managerial position twice before in an acting capacity and, in her earlier career, has helped take a firm from £0 to £6 million.
“I’m really pleased to have this opportunity,” says Jayne. “It will be a challenge but I’m looking forward to it.
“Lincolnshire is a great county to be in and I’ve enjoyed seeing our city grow and develop into being a very up and coming vibrant place to live.
“I’m looking forward to helping grow the general public’s interest and awareness of farming and rural life through the work of the Agricultural Society and the annual Show in June and also making people more aware of the facilities we have to offer through the Events Centre. The LEC is versatile, has sustainable ideals at its heart and has the capability to bring large exhibitions to Lincolnshire.
“We’re keen to be a part of the community and build relationships with and support organisations who share similar aims to the charitable aims of the LAS. I am looking forward to meeting people around the county and welcoming old and new visitors through our doors.”
In initial interviews following her appointment, Jayne has also confirmed that the Lincolnshire Show will stay in its mid-week slot, despite discussions in recent years about moving to include a weekend day, saying this is the strongest way to ensure it retains its agricultural heart.
Chairman of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society John Lockwood says “Following the departure of Mark Farmer, I am delighted to announce that Jayne Southall has been appointed as Director of the LAS and LEC to lead the team forward.
“No-one knows the business better than Jayne and her outstanding management of the Society’s accounts in recent years has given her a great insight into the business.
“I have, with the full backing of the Society’s Officers and Trustees, every confidence in the appointment.”