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I’m Rohit Kaushish, and I am currently the NFU’s Chief Economics Adviser based at NFU headquarters at Stoneleigh. My main role is to manage the economics team, which consists of economists, rural experts and statisticians. The work is wide‑ranging and encompasses all aspects of economic policy that impact on farming and the rural economy, supporting NFU strategy and its lobbying activities and also policy development. A key focus is to inform and empower both our members and colleagues using strong evidence and rationale to drive a supportive policy environment for British agriculture.

I joined the NFU as an economist eight years ago and in that time have been promoted to senior economist and now to chief adviser. Working at the NFU means working with high levels of autonomy and responsibility, which has provided the creative space for me to grow within my role and develop my skills and abilities.

The role is varied. The high degree of autonomy gives me the freedom required to do the role. As well as overseeing the work of my team and leading on policy development, I could be meeting government officials one day to discuss hot topics such as the economic outlook for UK farming in response to global events, the next day it could be public speaking at an industry conference in front of hundreds of delegates, followed later in the week with a trip to a country pub to talk to a meeting of members about the future of farming and the shifting policy landscape.

Working at the NFU is extremely rewarding. It’s fast‑paced, and I’m surrounded by colleagues who are passionate about what they do. Importantly the organisation is supportive and offers opportunities to grow. The organisation has a strong focus on collaborative cross‑departmental working which drives a culture where colleagues across the business are always welcoming and have time to share ideas and co‑design solutions.