Nominations are now being sought for Presidential and Vice-Presidential roles for Scotland’s leading agricultural organisation, NFU Scotland.
The election for these key appointments within Scottish agriculture will take place on Friday 8 February 2019.
Any NFU Scotland member can be nominated for election, providing they are proposed and seconded by fellow members.
The presidential position is held for two years and a President can serve a maximum of two consecutive two-year terms.
Under the terms of the constitution, those elected to the position of Vice President will initially serve for two years before the post reverts to an annual election.
Members of NFU Scotland’s council – a body made up from representatives of each of the Union’s 73 branches - will select the successful candidates.
Current President Andrew McCornick, who farms in Dumfriesshire, will complete his first two-year term at the union’s forthcoming AGM and has indicated that he will be standing for election for a second two-year term.
Vice President Martin Kennedy from Highland Perthshire, who was first elected to the position in 2017 has indicated that he will be standing for re-election as Vice President.
Gary Mitchell from Stranraer, who was first elected to the position of Vice President in 2017 has indicated that he will not be standing for re-election.
Mr Walker: “The job of electing those who will fill the union's Presidential seat and the two Vice Presidential posts during one of the most exciting and challenging times for Scottish agriculture is now underway and we invite applications from those keen to shape our post-Brexit farming industry.
“In the run up to our annual general meeting in February 2019 – taking place in Glasgow - we will be holding a number of hustings across all of our regions early in the New Year. This will give all candidates the opportunity to speak to as many of our members as possible as we approach the elections.
He added:“I would ask that if anyone is planning to run for either President or Vice President that they contact me, so the Union can provide support where possible. Making our wide network of branches and offices aware of all candidates will maximise the opportunities available to them to speak to the membership first hand.
“If potential candidates want to learn about what the roles entail, I am able to provide a full explanation of what is expected of a Vice President and President. For those keen to represent their fellow Scottish farmers and crofters, these are the most respected positions in our sector,” he said.
NFU Scotland was formed in 1913 and is Scotland’s leading agricultural organisation representing 9,000 farmers, crofters and growers.
Anyone wishing to stand as President or Vice President should contact NFU Scotland Chief Executive Scott Walker to obtain a proposal form, which must then be signed and returned to him by close of play on Wednesday, 12 December 2018.
