Nigel Hollett has taken up the reins as Director at the Country Land and Business Association in Wales, (CLA Cymru). Nigel lives on the Gower Peninsular. He spent much of his childhood working on family farms where he developed a strong interest in rural affairs. Nigel has previous experience of working in Wales in the former Environment Agency, in the Welsh Government, local government, with universities and with business. He has also worked across the UK, as the Chief Executive of a UK Sector Skills Council, in private consultancy and a variety of skills bodies.

The CLA represents around 30,000 landowners, farmers and rural businesses who manage over 10 million acres of rural land in England and Wales. The rural economy contributes some £250 billion to the wider economy. Nigel Hollett says, “Performing to its full potential, the Welsh rural economy could deliver even more.”

Joining CLA Cymru at a critical time for farming, land management and rural businesses, Nigel continues,

“I’m determined that the immense potential of the rural economy is raised as a priority in Wales. I’ll be championing critical issues: achieving a step-change in mobile and broadband connectivity, shaping a prosperous and sustainable farming industry, generating life-giving investment in innovation and skills, and urging government to develop a planning and tax regime in Wales which enables the rural economy to compete globally. Wales’ Rural Powerhouse must be acknowledged.”

“Farming stands at the brink of the greatest change the sector has seen for several generations,” Nigel adds. “The backbone of our rural economy, it’s vital that Welsh agriculture emerges with strength and depth.”

Nigel takes over at CLA Cymru from outgoing Director, Rebecca Williams who has led the Welsh CLA team for nearly five years.

“I credit Rebecca for her strength in representing landowners, farmers and rural businesses, building a strong platform of influence from which I can continue. I wish her every success in her future career.”

“In Wales we can be particularly proud of the creativity, progressiveness, entrepreneurship and commitment shown by rural farmers and other businesspeople. This includes businesses from farming and down-stream processing and retail, tourism, housing and energy, hi tech and service industries, as well as a food and drink sector.” Nigel Hollett says, “I’m looking forward to meeting CLA Cymru members and potential members, to listening to their needs and presenting their compelling case, and to meeting other stakeholders too.”

Nigel concludes,

“The countryside can provide solutions to so many of the issues that concern wider society – from climate change and the environment to the housing crisis.  We are ready and raring to go, and with the right political support we can realise the countryside’s huge economic and social potential.”