The British Guild of Agricultural Journalists is calling on members who want to play a leading role in the governance and future direction of the organisation to apply to become a director.
At the Guild’s AGM on 26 March at FarmEd in Oxfordshire, three director vacancies will be filled. Members should signal their interest by midnight on 15 March 2026 by contacting Nikki Robertson, along with the names of two members who support their application.
What is Guild Council?
Eleven directors, together with non-executive appointees such as the secretary and advisors, form the Guild Council, which is responsible for the strategic direction, governance and day-to-day oversight of the Guild’s work. It is a practical, working board, made up of members who care about the profession and are willing to give time, ideas and energy to support colleagues across agricultural journalism, PR and communications.
Who are we looking for?
The first role we are looking to fill is a secretary to look after continuing professional development. This involves identifying training needs, shaping the programme and organising several training courses each year. This is a key part of the Guild’s offer to members and an opportunity to make a tangible difference to skills, standards and career development across the sector.
The second role is communications. We are seeking a council member to lead on how the Guild communicates with its members and the wider industry. This encompasses overall responsibility for website news content, LinkedIn posts, and monthly newsletters. The communications secretary is supported by a contracted communications executive who carries out the execution of the content, so the role involves providing direction, feedback and sign-off to ensure the Guild’s messaging is clear, timely and effective.
As there are three vacancies, a role for a further new joiner will be discussed at a future Council meeting.
What’s in it for you?
Serving on council is voluntary, but it is rewarding. It offers a chance to influence the direction of the Guild, broaden your network, develop leadership experience and contribute to the strength and credibility of our profession. Council roles are open to members from all backgrounds and career stages, and support is provided by fellow council members and the executive team.
The role is also a great deal of fun. You’ll get to know your fellow directors well, and Guild business is done in a professional but relaxed fashion.
How much time will I be committing?
Council directors attend five meetings a year – three of which are in Birmingham, with the remaining two online. Meetings typically last four hours. Travel costs are reimbursed. Harvest Lunch and AGM attendance is optional but encouraged.
The time commitment required in between meetings will depend on the individual’s role, and the time of year. For example, the awards secretary’s busiest time is in the run up to the Harvest Lunch where the winners are revealed. Other roles may have a smaller time commitment but will be year-round.
Who do I speak to about this?
If you want to apply, you need the support of two other Guild members. Please email Nikki Robertson with a short notice of application, and the names of the two members who are supporting you.
If you want to have an informal chat about the role of a director, call any member of Council. Their names and contact details are on the website, or put a note in the Guild’s WhatsApp Group.
How do I get appointed?
A vote will be taken at the AGM in March.
