To develop management skills in farming, AHDB has opened applications for a Professional Manager Development Scheme (PMDS) course, which will start in January 2018.
The course is designed to develop the skills of farmers who manage staff, enabling them to apply business intelligence from other sectors, improve communication and understanding, to raise the level of professionalism in the agricultural industry.
AHDB levy payers are eligible for a £3,000 discount on the professionally recognised qualification run by training specialists, Cedar Associates.
Farmers that took part in the 2016 courses have identified combined savings to their businesses in excess of £250,000.
Project Manager for External Industry Skills Development at AHDB, Tess Howe said: “Getting your farm business in shape and ready for the opportunities ahead, post Brexit, is now a priority for farm businesses. Paying equal attention to your management skills should be no different and will help deliver tangible benefits to support the longevity and sustainability of your business.”
There are ten sessions planned over the fourteen-month programme, each consisting of an evening discussion followed by a day of management training.
Patrick Joice, a Norfolk based arable farmer, who is on the current PMDS course, said: “This course has opened my eyes and helped me identify issues I didn’t even know I had, and shown me how to resolve them. I’m now much more proactive, more aware and can sort out issues more quickly.”
Farmers who take part in the course receive a formal qualification from the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) and a certificate in First Line Management.
The interview panel is looking for individuals who are already in a role with responsibilities and have the ability to implement change where required. It is essential that participants have the full support of their employer.
Places are limited, however, there is no pre-requisite in terms of qualifications and applicants must be able to complete reports and commit to attend all training sessions.
Application forms should be submitted by Wednesday 15 November 2017 and successful candidates will be invited for interview on Wednesday 29 November.
AHDB levy payers are eligible for a discount to attend the course, which costs £950 plus VAT and includes registration, tutor and hotel fees. Non-levy payers can apply but will be subject to the full £3,950 plus VAT cost.
