Talking Leaders: The outsider’s advantage – Rethinking leadership in farming and growing

John Walgate is the Chief Executive of the British Growers Association. Representing the voice of UK horticulture, he'll share insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the sector – from labour and policy to productivity and long-term sustainability.

Expect an honest, strategic perspective on what it takes to lead and represent a critical part of UK food production.

Submit questions on the day or send them through in advance to: mark.campbell@ahdb.org.uk 

John Walgate

John is a qualified accountant by profession, with the majority of his career in senior leadership positions within the pet food manufacturing industry, supplying both branded and private label produce and all the major grocery retailers.

He was also a director for over ten years and past chairman of the UK pet food manufacturers trade body, UK Pet Food, and represented the UK on the European body.

As CEO of the British Growers Association (BGA) John leads a team of 18 employees providing professional services to most of the UK horticultural crop associations and a number of horticulture related organisations.

The BGA is a not-for-profit, member-owned organisation that has been in operation for over 50 years. It also represents the horticultural sector with various stakeholders, including government.

Through its’ network of crop associations, the BGA has links to over 1,000 growers in the UK, with a remit that is solely focused on the success of British horticulture.

As a keen ‘amateur’ allotment holder, he is proud to be an advocate for the professional growers feeding the nation.

John has also recently joined the Fresh Produce Board of Red Tractor.

Find out more about our AgriLeader activities and other Talking Leaders broadcasts