Sophie Throup has been named as the NFU's new director general
Yorkshire farmer Sophie Throup has been named as the new director general of the NFU.
Ms Throup, previously technical and sustainability director at Myton Food Group, replaces Terry Jones who announced he would be stepping down following a decade in the role.
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The former head of agriculture at Morrisons has said in the past that she has sought roles which would have a ‘positive influence on the future of UK farming'.
The NFU said her experience in the food supply chain is preceded by a decade in the veterinary sector and time in non-executive and advisory roles, including with Defra as part of the Trade and Agriculture Commission's development.
Farm support
Ms Throup said: "It is an honour and a privilege to have the opportunity to lead the NFU and take this great organisation forward with energy, commitment and a clear vision for its future.
"With our family farming back home in Yorkshire, my roots have always been in agriculture, and I know how important this period of change is for the sector. I am a great believer of strength in unity, something the NFU has at its core, and I'm looking forward to working with and listening to our members to help make a positive difference for farming in England and Wales."
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Ms Throup, a BFA Women in Agriculture nominee, has been a keen supporter of the Farmers Guardian #Farm24 campaign and has also voiced her concerns regarding the family farm tax, speaking out on behalf of retailer Morrisons.
She said: "We want to send a message of support to the whole of the farming community. We understand your anger and frustration at the Inheritance Tax and we share your concerns about the long-term future of Inheritance Tax is going to have on farms, particularly smaller family farms and we know you want something done about it."
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In recent years the mixed farmer led the formation of a School of Sustainable Food and Farming at Harper Adams University with Morrisons, the NFU and McDonalds, which helps shape research, training and innovative support to boost sustainable farming.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: "I would like to welcome Sophie to the NFU and we are delighted with her appointment at this pivotal time for the farming industry. She brings with her a wealth of experience in the commercial and animal health sectors alongside a clear passion for farming and food production. I look forward to working with her to deliver a thriving, vibrant NFU that creates opportunities for our members.
Tribute
Mr Bradshaw also paid tribute to Mr Jones and his work with the union.
"I would also like to thank Terry Jones for his dedication to the NFU and its members over the past 10 years, and for leading the NFU through one of the most challenging periods for the sector."
