THOSE IN BRITISH POTATO SECTOR INVITED TO HELP SHAPE FUTURE OF O.F.C.

Men and women sitting and standing in a group facing camera

NEW DIRECTORS SOUGHT AS CHARITY CELEBRATES 90 YEARS

THOSE in the British potato industry are being invited to join the 2026 Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) which takes place from January 7th to 9th, which is also seeking three new directors.

Launched in 1936, OFC is known for its high calibre of speakers, international perspectives, broad thinking, networking opportunities, and political/societal announcements.

It is also one of the only events out with the Oxford University to use prestigious venues such as Christchurch College and the Oxford Union Debating Chamber, which has welcomed notable figures in history, including Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein and Ronald Reagan.

The 2026 event will celebrate the 90th anniversary of OFC and will be themed “Growing Resilience”, led by Chair and CEO of the Farming Community Network, Jude McCann.

Launched in 1936, OFC is known for its high calibre of speakers, international perspectives, broad thinking, exceptional networking, and significant political and societal announcements, shaping the future direction of UK agriculture.

It is also one of the only events out with the Oxford University to use prestigious venues such as Christchurch College and the Oxford Union Debating Chamber, which has welcomed notable figures in history, including Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein and Ronald Reagan.

The 2026 event which takes place from January 7th to 9th, which will celebrate the 90th anniversary of OFC, will be themed “Growing Resilience”, led by Chair and CEO of the Farming Community Network, Jude McCann. OFC has opened applications for three new individuals to join the board and support the future development of one of the event.

Jude McCann said: “The Oxford Farming Conference offers a unique chance to build your skills and experiences, whilst also giving back to a charity that is dedicated to supporting the future of agriculture.

“Over the last 90 years, our predecessors have delivered an event that has often marked a significant change in the industry, from key political announcements about funding and regulations, to societal change of inclusion and diversity, through to business diversifications, practical on-farm solutions, and international trade.

“As we look forward to the next 90 years of OFC, we seek to appoint three new Directors who will join our board for a three-year term, collaborating and developing new themes, sessions and speakers for the forthcoming conferences.”

Current Directors include CEO of Niab, Mario Caccamo, Project Manager (Rural) for Scottish Enterprise Julia Latto, Estate Manager, David Hill, Savills Director and Head of Rural Research Kelly Hewson-Fisher and Sustainability Manager for Leprino Foods, Ben Williams.

Find out more about the Director Recruitment, view the full board, and download the application form.

Applications close on 25 June 2025.

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British Potato Review
Potato Review reports on new developments in all areas of crop production, storage, handling and packing, as well as scientific, technological and machinery innovations in the UK and overseas. We also keep readers abreast of consumer trends and legislation changes impacting on the industry.
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