Harper graduate named Agronomist of the Year 2019

9 January 2020

Harper Adams graduate David Stead has recently been awarded the title of Agronomist of the Year 2019 at the Food and Farming Industry Awards. The annual event sees the very best in British food and farming all in one room to celebrate the thriving industry and award those making great contributions. This year, the award was presented at the House of Commons and hosted by broadcaster Julia Hartley-Brewer.

Very proud and privileged to represent a fantastic food and farming industry. A long list of thank you’s, mainly to my customers, @Hutchinsons_Ag colleagues and everyone who has supported me in my career to date. Thanks for a fantastic evening #FFIawards19 #houseofcommons pic.twitter.com/HGR7Uy0Fss
— David Stead (@SteadyDave1) December 7, 2019

David grew up on a mixed family farm near Thirsk, North Yorkshire and always had an interest in arable farming. In pursuing this, he attained his BSc (Hons) Agriculture with Crop Management degree in 2010, going on to work as a foundation trainee agronomist with HL Hutchinson Ltd. From there, he continued to work for the company and grow his knowledge as an agronomist.

Now as a Hutchinson's Area Business Manager and Basis Diploma Agronomist, David works on a variety of farms giving advice on best practise based in Yorkshire. Overseeing six agronomist's and four agronomist agents, he and his team enable farmers to ensure financial profitability with passion and enthusiasm. The award is a testament to the knowledge he gained at Harper Adams University which he continues to solidify through his work.

The Food and Farming Industry Awards are staged annually by Farm Business and Lewis Business Media to recognise excellence and innovation across the agricultural sector. You can find out more about the awards here.