New Dairy Leadership Network Aims to Cultivate Future Farm Leaders
The Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF) has announced the creation of the Entrepreneurs Club, a new network designed to support the professional growth of nearly 500 individuals who have previously participated in the Entrepreneurs in Dairying programme. This initiative aims at fostering leadership and business acumen in the dairy industry.
The Entrepreneurs Club is intended to offer ongoing training, study tours, farm walks, and opportunities for board-level development. These activities are part of RABDF's strategy to bolster business skills and leadership within the sector. Since its inception in 2012, the Entrepreneurs in Dairying programme has been instrumental in nurturing aspiring dairy producers, delivered in partnership with the Andersons Centre, AHDB Dairy, and the NFU.
Hayley Campbell-Gibbons, Chief Executive of RABDF, highlighted that the club was established in response to requests from past participants who expressed a desire for continued education and networking beyond the original programme's duration. The club is exclusive to alumni of the Entrepreneurs in Dairying programme over the past 14 years, offering a structured environment for career advancement.
Among the benefits provided to members are chances to gain experience at the board level, enhancing governance, leadership, and strategic skills. Membership is set at a special rate of £25, granting access to various events, further training, and industry visits.
Andrew Edwards, a former participant, emphasized the positive impact the programme had on his career, noting that it facilitated his securing of a contract farming agreement. He expressed enthusiasm about the new club's potential to maintain and expand the learning and networking opportunities provided by the Entrepreneurs in Dairying programme.
RABDF Vice-Chair Tim Downes stated that the programme had already played a significant role in the development of numerous individuals within the dairy sector. He sees the club as a way to reconnect this network of professionals and track their career progress since completing the programme.
Applications for the 2026 Entrepreneurs in Dairying programme are currently open, continuing RABDF's commitment to fostering future leaders in the dairy industry.
