I grew up in rural Norfolk, not farming, but surrounded by farmers. My dad was a regional beef specialist for ADAS following a number of years working in agriculture overseas and always had plenty of tales to tell as well as interesting work. I went on to complete an agricultural degree at Seale Hayne and have worked in the agricultural sector since.

I like working with the people involved in the agricultural sector – they are down to earth, straight talking, and so committed to the industry. The fact that we are all doing something useful – producing food and looking after the landscape and the nature that inhabits it makes this such a rewarding career.

Agriculture has become hugely more productive in the time I’ve been involved with the industry. Bigger machinery, more technology, and genetics have all had a huge impact. The people are the constant, those involved in the sector are one of a kind and hugely dynamic, adapting their businesses to the constant changes in technology and the weather. People, technology, trade and policy will continue to shape the industry.

I would fix the transition to sustainable food production. There are so many moving parts and such big risks for individual businesses. I can only sympathise with farmers as they grapple with the direction and focus for their businesses.

I would be a hedge – maybe not seen as a crop in our current definition, but as part of the transition to sustainable land management delivering for food and nature then the humble hedge is going to be hugely important.