Ann Maidment has been appointed CLA South West director, one of the most influential regional positions in the rural sector.

Miss Maidment will lead a team that represents the interests of over 5,000 farmers, landowners and rural businesses across the south west region.

A Harper Adams graduate, Ann joined the CLA in 2015 as a rural chartered surveyor advising on issues arising from the use, ownership and occupation of land, and is already a familiar face to CLA members as well as many rural bodies in the region. In March 2019, Ann took up the position of acting regional director after her predecessor, John Mortimer, undertook a period of medical treatment.

When John announced in July that, after 17 years, he was stepping back from the role of regional director permanently, the CLA quickly set about the recruitment of a replacement. Ann fought off some tough competition and was offered the role on a permanent basis this week, having successfully lead the team since March, during its busy show period.

A farmer’s daughter and having previously worked in rural estate management, Ann has a sound understanding and appreciation for the workings and challenges of both the agricultural and the rural economy.

She said: “We have a fantastic strong team here and an incredibly supportive membership. I’m delighted to be continuing as the Regional Director here in the South West.

“With the support of our professionals here and in London, I hope to give our members some stability and certainty in what are economically and politically unsettled times.

“The role of the CLA has never been more important. We will continue to enable farmers and landowners to make informed decisions about how they run their businesses.

“I would like to thank my predecessor John Mortimer, who for 17 years has fought passionately for the future security of our members’ rural communities and businesses. He has left our region with a strong, united, committed membership which I will continue to grow and support.”

The CLA South West will be advertising for the vacant position or rural surveyor which will be based in the Corsham office. Details of this role can be requested from the CLA South West office by calling 01249 700200.