Women in Agriculture Lead the Way in a Changing Rural Landscape

Bringing together nearly 100 women from across the rural economy at Lincoln’s historic Doddington Hall, the East Midlands’ Women in Agriculture (WiA) spring gathering speakers echoed a common message: women are not only helping to shape the future of agriculture, but they are also bringing new and innovative perspectives to the sector.

The latest event in the WiA series – a network that brings together women from across the East Midlands in the spirit of professional development and support – featured a line-up of five exceptional women whose diverse backgrounds have converged in agriculture and its allied industries, sharing stories from succession and sustainability to resilience and reinvention.

Speakers included Louise Speke, chief tax adviser at the CLA, who discussed the implications of the upcoming tax changes within the rural sector, and Jo Munson, director of flower growing firm Smith & Munson, who spoke about the production process of tulips and lilies.

Mother and daughter duo Meryl Ward and Emma Blandford, who are directors of their family farming business, Lincolnshire Pork Co Ltd & Warden Farming Company Ltd, spoke about the evolution of the business – from pig and potato producers to a dynamic portfolio that includes arable operations and Uncle Henry’s Farm Shop.

Last to speak was Becci Berry, who took the reins of a 356ha farm following her late husband’s cancer diagnosis. She closed the day with a powerful reminder of courage and clarity in leadership, her commitment to staying ahead of industry change, and the importance of building the right support network, which underscored the resilience that defines many women in the sector.

Amy Cowdell, agricultural partner, co-founder and sponsor of the WiA group, said: “It’s inspiring to witness the strength, creativity and leadership that women are bringing to the agricultural sector.

“The stories shared at Doddington Hall highlight the importance of collaboration, sharing best practice, navigating common challenges and lifting each other up. Agriculture is undergoing a generational transformation, and the diversification and innovation we’re seeing are signs of a vibrant and resilient future.

“Agriculture is a cornerstone of the UK economy – not only in terms of food security, but in environmental stewardship, rural employment and national wellbeing.”

The WiA network was established in 2019 in direct response to growing demand for dedicated spaces where rural women can share insights, build professional connections and find practical guidance.

We were delighted to sponsor the event alongside Savills, Forrester Boyd, the CLA and Lincolnshire Agricultural Society.

For more information and to sign up to future events, please contact Amy Cowdell by emailing Amy.Cowdell@shma.co.uk or calling 07976413993.