Only two weeks left to recognise top farm manager
Farm managers have just over two weeks left to get their entries in for this year’s Claas Farm Manager of the Year award, part of the Farmers Weekly Awards.
Awards entries or nominations must be received by 30 April to stand a chance of picking up one of farming’s career-changing accolades.
Matt Solley (pictured) lifted the trophy last year and said he was “touched” that his employer had nominated him for the award. “I feel so positive about myself and the future of British farming as a result of my experience with the Awards.”
The judges praised Matt’s attitude, drive and enthusiasm for managing the day-to-day operations of a new 5500-acre joint-venture enterprise involving three established businesses.
At just 29 years of age, Matt had implemented a careful plan to dramatically reduce power and machinery costs as well as presenting his employers with a convincing business plan to equip the new operation.
This year’s judges include Mr Solley, FW business editor Ian Ashbridge and Strutt & Parker farm management consultant Adrian Cannon – himself a former FW Farm Manager of the Year.
How to enter Online The old-fashioned way Nominate someone How will I be judged?
Visit the awards website and complete an entry form.
Send your application to Marion Phillips, Farmers Weekly, Quadrant House, Sutton, Surrey SM2 5AS
You can nominate yourself or someone else who deserves recognition.
Do you know farm managers who are hiding their light under a bushel? Why not nominate them. We will contact them and they are not obliged to take part, although many are flattered to find employers or colleagues have put them forward.
The winning farm manager will be entrusted with running a successful livestock, arable or mixed farming business. This will be someone who, as principal decision-maker after the owner, can demonstrate a significant impact on the business through restructuring, collaboration, adding value or cutting costs.
The judges will be looking for evidence of strong business acumen, excellent staff management and oustanding leadership ability. For an informal chat about the awards, the judging process or any other aspect, ring Ian Ashbridge on 0208 652 4933 or email
- Read about last year’s winner, Matt Solley
CLAAS sponsors the Farm Manager of the Year award