Leader in the limelight: Chris Whitford

Chris Whitford

Chris (pictured) and Daisie Whitford of Whitford Farming are in their sixth year of a joint venture with Kingston Hill Farm Ltd. They milk 320 spring-calving cows in Oxfordshire.

Let’s get to know Chris a bit more

What’s the best advice you have ever received?

• Always do today's work today, never tomorrow
• It’s better to have it than to be looking for it (usually silage!)
• Do it once and do it right (must try harder at this one)
• Never put your finger where you wouldn't put your tongue

What was the best decision you ever made?
Most likely going to Harper Adams University, which resulted in me meeting my wife during my work placement with David Christensen. This has subsequently given me the opportunities I have today.

Who do you admire most and why?
Anyone who has nailed the work–life balance while actively farming.

On that note, if anyone reading this wants to get in touch to give me some advice or mentoring on that, I am all ears!

What is your biggest regret?
Not saving more when I was younger; that made it a slow process starting off in a joint venture.

I was just of the mindset that I would be managing a farm for someone forever. Then I found out more about JVs and realised that it was what I wanted to do to hopefully be in charge of my own destiny one day.

What has been the highlight of the year to date?
The arrival of our twin boys, Oliver and Toby. We already have 6- and 4-year-old boys, so it's going to be a busy household!

What keeps you awake at night?
Very little usually! I'm not one to get too worried about things.

If anything, it's normally the weather forecast for one reason or another – too wet, too dry, silage mown and needing picking up, etc.

I would think some bigger decisions, as we look to move forward and build capital ourselves, will probably feature over the next few years.

What’s been the best AgriLeader activity you’ve participated in?
Much to my embarrassment I have been unable to attend any so far – busy farm, busy household! I do, however, keep an eye on the goings-on via the website.

What one item (other than a spouse, child or pet) would you rescue from the flames?
My shotgun, as I do enjoy some shooting when I get time in the winter.

When or where do you get your best ideas?
Usually while doing some simple tasks around the farm – the ‘zone out’ jobs that give me a bit of thinking time.

What superpower would you choose?
Is there one that allows you to predict the future? If so, that. Otherwise, high-speed movement so I could get more done in a day!