Budding entrepreneurs, farmers and anyone keen to be a leading light in the poultry industry, is urged to apply now for this unique programme to develop their skills and knowledge on one of Britain’s biggest farming sectors.

The NFU Poultry Industry Programme, run in conjunction with ABN, will return again this year to find future innovators, after a highly successful run in 2012.

The scheme, aimed at 20 to 35-year-olds, gives participants a chance to get first-hand knowledge from industry peers and experts.

Combining a range of activities and vital business skills, while at the same time sharing best practice through various farm visits means this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Candidates will undertake training in a wide range of areas, from understanding market trends and industry pressures, to gathering information on lobbying and negotiating, teamed with learning about cutting edge technology.

NFU poultry adviser Helen Hunt said, “In 2012 we selected 19 candidates from various backgrounds for the programme, from large-scale poultry meat producers to free range egg producers and seasonal turkey farmers.

“They’ve all gone on to push the boundaries in the poultry industry and we’re hoping to do the same again this year with an even stronger programme planned.

“I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to bring young entrants into the industry to increase its skill set and ensure that future leaders have the ability to communicate industry matters to a wide audience.”

Lucy Tovey, ABN poultry technical support, was one of the successful candidates who was part of the programme in 2012. “Being on the programme has really helped progress my career with ABN and extend my knowledge of the industry.

“It was a great way to network with like-minded people, learn from each other, and hear about the challenges different sectors of the poultry industry face. Being able to apply these skills to my role at ABN has ensured I am better prepared when dealing with customers and industry contacts alike,” said Mrs Tovey.

The NFU Poultry Industry Programme is designed to run over a six month period, with a session each month providing the opportunity for successful candidates to get under the skin of what the NFU does, and also develop valuable business skills.

Patrick Joice, poultry farmer and chairman of the 2015 NFU Poultry Industry Programme explains that this is an opportunity not to be missed.

“I was part of the first programme in 2012, and I’m very lucky to be asked to chair the programme this year.

“At home we’ve always been supporters of the NFU, and having been away from the farm for a number of years, the chance to take part in this programme was a great opportunity.

“Each of the organised sessions were very insightful. But the highlight for me was the lobbying day in London, which included a tour of Westminster and meetings with Government on issues affecting the sector. The role of the NFU and what they do to support the industry really came to light.

“This is a programme that gives a true understanding into the organisation. I will be at each of the sessions this year but in a different role. I’m looking forward to meeting another group of young entrants wishing to build their skills in the industry,” said Mr Joice.