The British Guild of Agricultural Journalists is encouraging members who want to play a part in shaping the future of the Guild to apply to become directors at the next Annual General Meeting in March 2025.
Positions are open for two new directors to be appointed to the board, with applications to be made by the 25th February 2025.
How does it work?
The Guild is managed by a volunteer council of 11 directors, supported by the Guild President and general secretary.
The council meets five times a year – twice virtually and three times in either Birmingham or London – and each director is given an area of responsibility to progress between meetings.
New director’s responsibilities
The two new directors elected in March will share responsibility for running the Guild’s awards programme.
This will include writing promotional content to encourage entries, managing submissions, coordinating judges, liaising with sponsors, and supporting with the prize-giving ceremonies at Cereals and the Harvest Lunch.
A full handover will be provided with ongoing support from other members of council who have experience in running the awards programme.
All directors contribute ideas and are encouraged to give their perspective on specific issues or areas of development that could benefit members.
Who can apply?
Any member is welcome to apply. The current council comprises freelance and staff journalists, self-employed PR consultants, agricultural communications agency directors and small business owners.
How long do I serve for?
Each director serves a term of no more than three years before they must either stand down or seek re-election at an Annual General Meeting.
Guild Chair Ben Pike said: “Being a council director is extremely rewarding and gives you a chance to influence the direction of the organisation to ensure it fits the needs of members. It helps you to grow your network and opens opportunities to meet new people.
“There is a great range of expertise around the table and we encourage new ideas and critical thinking.
“Our awards programme is hugely valued by members and sponsors alike, so the roles we are recruiting for are important to the Guild.”
What is the process?
A member wishing to nominate themself for election must put their application in writing to secretary@gaj.org.uk. Nominations must be endorsed by two or more members.
Nominations must be received no fewer than 28 days before the AGM. The deadline for nominations is the 25th of February 2025, with the 2025 AGM to be held on 27th March.
Find out more
For an informal conversation about becoming a Guild director and what it entails, contact Ben Pike on ben@evecommunications.co.uk or 07832168560. Deputy Chair (and current awards secretary) Olivia Midgley is also available to talk about the role. Contacting Olivia on WhatsApp is best on 07787240750.
