Farms and rural businesses will need excellent leadership and management if they are to thrive in the coming years, and a new short course is set to provide just that.

Managing any business through the uncertainty of Brexit and beyond is a challenge, but agriculture and related industries perhaps face greater change than any other sector.

However, short of enrolling in a full-time college course, it can be difficult for tomorrow’s leaders to obtain the skills required.

That’s why the Worshipful Company of Farmers and Duchy College have joined forces to launch a new leadership and management programme, targeted at 20 to 30-year-olds who are keen to progress their career to the next level.

Chris Godolphin, course manager, said: "Whether you’re planning to take over the family farm in a few years, are setting up your own rural business, or are seeking the next step in a larger organisation, it’s vital that you acquire the necessary skills to manage staff and lead them forwards.

“Having the confidence to create a business plan, motivate staff, refocus on different enterprises, and work with professionals to improve profitability through volatile times are all vital elements of a good leader.

“Taking a few days away to learn these skills and develop a new perspective could be the most profitable investment you ever make.”

The new learning programme will be held at Keele University, Staffordshire, over five days from October 23 to 28, 2017, with financial assistance available through the Worshipful Company of Farmers.

It will include a working case study, whereby delegates analyse an existing business and advise how to improve it; workshops on communication, leadership and management techniques; as well as individual profiling and development.

Delegates will also receive mentor support for a full year after the course, while also creating a lasting network of friends and peers.

Jane King, CEO at AHDB, said: “We are entering a defining moment for the future of the industry and strong leadership will be fundamental to our future success.

“Personal development and a positive attitude towards lifelong learning will be vital if we’re to build a world class industry together.”

Mr Godolphin added: “We are well-served with higher level short courses like the challenge of rural leadership and advanced agricultural business management, but there was a gaping hole for the younger leaders of the future."