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"Newly appointed FUW Managing Director Alan Davies says the opportunity to be here in Wales, to work in Welsh, to be able to influence Welsh Government policy and represent an important cause was far too good an opportunity to miss"[/caption]
Having celebrated their 60th Anniversary in December last year, the Farmers’ Union of Wales has appointed a Welsh speaking London-Welshman as its new Managing Director.
Alan Davies, whose family emanate from Ceredigion, had an early career in the Army and for the last 20+ years has lived and worked in and around Cardiff establishing and growing some high impact businesses in south Wales.
More recently he has managed complex project relationships between large companies in Wales and the Welsh Government.
“I’m truly excited about the challenge this position offers. The FUW is unique: it is the only body authorised by the UK Government to speak exclusively on behalf of the Farmers of Wales, our members are from within Wales, our funding all emanates from within Wales and of course we are not influenced by external or corporate decision makers.
“Our focus is all about making Wales a better place with strong, sustainable rural economies and with over 35 percent of the country's population in the rural economy this is a challenge that needs serious attention.
“Of course we face some challenging and exciting times: there are global issues that affect farming, the EU referendum represents a dangerous moment that could take us into worrying territory and of course the imminent Welsh Assembly elections represent more possibility for change. We will however work with any and all parties to strengthen the future of Wales,” said Mr Davies.
At the recent FUW annual Farmhouse Breakfast in the Senedd, FUW President Glyn Roberts, commented: “We are delighted to have Alan on our team. Not only does he bring a tremendous range of skills that will help us strengthen the position of the FUW as the leading representative of farmers throughout Wales, but his fresh ideas and innovative approach will be of great value to our work in making Wales stronger.”
At the same event, Mr Davies commented on the importance of working together: “Teamwork, cooperation, collaboration: we must all work together to ensure that our rural economy remains an important part of the future of Wales, and we must recognise the importance that agriculture plays in our hearts, on our tables and in the rural economy.”