By Harry Bell, Recruitment Specialist at Agricultural Appointments
At a recent conference, I had the opportunity to listen to Dr Kate Burke, author of Crops, People, Money and You, speak about farm succession planning and the importance of having those difficult but necessary conversations with the next generation.
Growing up on a sheep and beef farm myself, with parents now well into their 60s, I’ve seen first-hand how differently families approach this challenge and how much more effective the transition can be when the right support is in place.
I also spoke with Graham Craig of Wilsons Advisory, who reminded me that a farm is far more than just a home. While it can be hard to separate the emotion from the land you grew up on, it’s vital to recognise the farm as a significant capital asset. That’s why surrounding yourself with the right people is so important. A trusted advisory team, made up of a private wealth advisor, accountant, and solicitor, helps manage the financial, legal, and tax implications of succession, protecting assets and ensuring the family’s future income needs are clearly mapped out.
Equally important is having the right operational team to provide continuity for the farming enterprise, particularly if the next generation isn’t yet ready to take the reins. Bringing in skilled staff early reduces risk, eases the burden on family members, and leads to a smoother transition overall.
This is where recruitment expertise makes all the difference. Identifying and attracting skilled operational staff who understand the nuances of your enterprise is just as critical as assembling your advisory team. The right people keep day-to-day operations running, safeguard productivity, and support long-term growth, while giving the next generation the space to learn and gradually step into leadership.
I work with agribusinesses to connect them with experienced professionals who not only bring the technical skills needed on-farm but also align with the values and culture of the family business. Whether it’s a farm manager, livestock specialist, or agronomy expert, my focus is on matching talent to the unique needs of each enterprise.
By taking a strategic approach to recruitment, I can help build an operational team that maintains performance, supports succession planning, and gives families the confidence to plan for the future without compromising day-to-day farm success.
For those wanting to take the next step, I recommend reading Crops, People, Money and You by Dr Kate Burke, speaking with an investment manager, and getting in touch with me to discuss how I can help recruit the right operational team for your business.
