Starting with the NFU in September 2019, I kicked things off in the Campaigns team, working on a diverse range of projects from the 2019 to the Instagram account. Since September 2021, I have been with the NFU’s External Affairs Team, taking our messages straight to the heart of Government.
As I mentioned, one of the first campaigns I was involved with was the Lord Mayor’s Show. This was an amazing way to kick off my year and must go down as one of my highlights. To have paraded the streets of central London with two tractors and a 12ft tall market stall is something I will never forget!
Another stand‑out moment from my first year in the Communications team is NFU Conference. Over conference, I spent some time with the press team, preparing the press room, attending press conferences and meeting journalists. But for me, the best part of conference is seeing farmers from all corners of England and Wales engaging in debate on the future of our industry.
Although I only spent 6‑months in the office before the hit, in the time I have spent at home, I have still had the opportunity to work on some amazing projects including delivering all social media content the NFU’s Back British Farming Day and working on our campaign to ban sky lanterns.
Since joining the External Affairs team, I have had the opportunity to really develop my writing skills through a monthly column in Farming Wales – our monthly publication for NFU Cymru members – writing briefings for MPs, and articles for the NFU’s website »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË.
Although COVID has prevented us from hosting any events in person, one of my favourite projects I led on was a (virtual) stakeholder event we hosted, featuring a number of high‑profile panellists. I also had the opportunity to lead on the NFU’s fringe event at the Liberal Democrat Autumn Conference in 2020, which was an amazing opportunity. Currently I am planning our event for 2021!
Outside of work, the NFU has a cricket team that plays in a local league throughout the summer; this has provided me with a fantastic opportunity to get to know colleagues from across the business outside of a work setting, which I have loved.