The president of the National Farmers Union is an immensely important spokesperson for farmers across the land. As head of the largest farming organisation in the UK, the president has access to the top people in government and the media.
Getting the right person into the position is therefore highly important.
For eight years Bedfordshire arable farmer Peter Kendall has successfully led the NFU.
After last year nnouncing his decision to stand down, nominees for the postion are now online at the NFU website and members are being encouraged to view the video statements of the nominees for president, deputy president and vice president.
Members can then make their views known to the county office holders who will vote on behalf of all county members at the national AGM in Birmingham later this month on February 26.
There are two nominees for the position of president.
Meurigh Raymond runs a mixed farming enterprise in Pembrokeshire and served as Mr Kendall’s deputy for the eight years of his presidency.
Standing against him is Warwickshire farmer Adam Quinney who is also standing for deputy president.
Five people, including two female farmers, have thrown their names into the ring for deputy president and there are seven names to chose from for the vice president position.
All senior officeholders must have considerable communication skills and an ability to motivate members and staff to deliver the right policies for the future of farming.