Harper Adams Forum: Harrison Rural Consultancy

Posted 30 November 2012

By Harper Adams Forum Reporter, Greg Parkes

Dimitri Harrision of Harrison Rural Consultancy visited the Harper Adams Forum to talk about his thoughts on the changes in modern estate management.

After working for Balfours for several years, Mr Harrison set up his own rural consultancy business where he feels he can offer a more strategic and personal approach.

At the Forum, he gave an overview of land management in the UK, stating that it is a well respected industry, regulated by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Mr Harrison however, feels that the industry is likely to produce some unhappy clients, as management could be improved.

He feels that the main problems stem from reactive management, rather than management planned in advance, and increased workload above what would have been done by those in the industry years back.

On the contrary, he highlighted the increased understanding of land management by clients meaning both land agents and owners can work together, a growing approach to strategy, and greater research into the current issues.

Mr Harrison concluded by saying that the industry has a bright future as institutions such as Harper Adams produce young professionals well equipped for modern management with a positive approach to teamwork and improved business skills.

His advice to young land agents included: broaden your horizons, question the norm, remember what objectives the client has put forward and be determined and courteous in the work you do.