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INSPIRING SPEAKERS SET TO TAKE CENTRE STAGE AT WOMEN IN DAIRY CONFERENCE

The Women in Dairy Conference is back on 17 September at Chesford Grange Hotel, Kenilworth, promising a day of insight, inspiration, and practical takeaways for everyone in the dairy sector.

This year’s event features a top line-up of speakers including,

  • Alice Plunkett – Broadcaster and equestrian, bringing energy and unique insights.
  • Rebecca Wilson – Dynamic young farmer and social media advocate, championing modern, progressive dairy farming.
  • Liz Haines – Respected voice in the dairy sector and Nuffield Scholar, talking about neurodiversity in the workplace
  • Aisling Downey – SmaXtec Sales Manager, providing cutting-edge insights into herd health monitoring and innovative approaches to dairy management.
  • Andy Hipwell – HSBC, offering expertise on financial and strategic perspectives for the dairy industry.

Headline speaker

Vet and Nuffield Scholar Hannah Batty will headline the conference, highlighting how strong, happy teams drive both herd performance and farm productivity.

“Cows are actually pretty simple,” says Hannah. “They crave consistency, good nutrition, and the right environment. But people — that’s where things get complex.”

Drawing on her experience as a vet and a Nuffield Scholarship study tour Hannah will share her three guiding principles for farm team management: Why, Who, and How. Her message is simple: happy cows come from happy, motivated, and well-managed teams.

The conference also features a lively panel debate, “Moo-ving in the Right Direction: Tackling Labour Challenges in Dairy. Panellists include Kate Robinson from Harper Adams University, Becca Cavill of Boehringer Ingelheim, Stevie Edge-McKee from Farms for City Children, and Grace Nugent of De Lacy Executive.

The panel discussion will explore practical solutions to labour challenges, innovative recruitment strategies, and how the next generation of dairy professionals is shaping the future of the industry.

The Women in Dairy Conference is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about dairy, eager to learn from leading voices, and looking to gain insight into the latest developments in herd health, productivity, and team management.

The event offers excellent networking opportunities, with refreshments and lunch provided. Tickets cost £70 (+VAT and booking fee), with discounts available for groups, students, NFYFC members, and a 25% discount for Women in Dairy members. More information is available at www.womenindairy.co.uk.