Andrew Connon has been named as the new president of NFU Scotland.
Andrew Connon has been named as the new president of NFU Scotland.
The Aberdeenshire farmer served under outgoing president Martin Kennedy as vice-president before being announced as the union's new head on Friday (February 7).
Duncan Macalister and Robert Neill were also elected to support Mr Connon as new NFUS vice-presidents.
Mr Connon said leading the union would be a 'huge honour'.
"It is an incredible honour to have been elected and I promise that I will do my utmost to serve Scotland's farmers and crofters to the best of my ability, striving to meet the incredible high standards of those who have held this post before me," he added.
"I never thought I would be here today as president.
"Thank you to everyone who supported me - especially my wife Pauline.
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"There are difficult and challenging times ahead but in Duncan Macalister and Robert Neill, I have been given a clear mandate by members to represent them, and we are honoured to carry their message forward.
"I believe we have a top table team, who, backed by the members, staff and secretaries have the vision to deliver a sustainable and profitable future for Scotland's farmers and crofters and the generations to come.
"My predecessor Martin Kennedy has been an incredible servant for Scottish agriculture and his passion and commitment make him an incredibly tough act to follow.
"Although missing out, I also congratulate my fellow vice-president Alasdair for the part he played in a hard-fought campaign and the outstanding shift he has put in as a vice-president representing our members.
"While unsuccessful, I also congratulate Mike Davis for the courage and commitment to put his name in the hat for the vice-presidential role and I hope NFUS can continue to rely on his enthusiasm, support and advice for years to come."
The new NFUS president said it was time to look forward to the future.
"We are at a pivotal moment in Scottish agriculture," he added.
"The Autumn Budget was a real turning point and Scottish farmers are no longer willing to be taken for granted.
"We can all make a difference so long as we can make it happen.
"I assure you that I will do my very best to protect and defend Scottish agriculture and our industry."
Election
草榴社区 and politicians have welcomed Mr Connon's arrival as the new president of the union.
Quality Meat Scotland chair Kate Rowell said: "Andrew is stepping into the role at a crucial time for the industry.
"With his extensive farming experience, alongside his leadership roles at NFUS, he is well-equipped to advocate for the sector to ensure the concerns of our farmers are heard at the highest levels.
"Andrew has been deeply involved in agricultural leadership and advocacy, demonstrating a strong commitment to representing and advancing the interests of Scottish farmers.
"I also extend a warm welcome to the new vice-presidents, Robert Neill and Duncan Macalister, who bring with them a wealth of experience, fresh perspectives, and a shared commitment to strengthening Scotland's red meat industry.
"We look forward to building on our valued relationship with NFUS as we continue to champion the priorities of our sector."
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Ms Rowell also took the opportunity to express her appreciation for outgoing president Martin Kennedy, recognising his 'dedication and invaluable contributions' over the years.
"It has been a pleasure to work with Martin Kennedy, whose leadership and passion for Scottish agriculture have been truly commendable," she added.
"His tireless efforts and unwavering commitment have played a key role in navigating our industry through an ever-changing landscape.
"Martin is a tremendous asset to the sector, and his work has made a lasting impact.
"We are incredibly grateful for his dedication and advocacy, and we look forward to seeing him continue to support and champion the industry in new ways."
Harriet Cross, Gordon and Buchan MP, congratulated Mr Connon on his election as the new president.
"I am delighted Andrew has been elected as the new president of NFUS, Ms Cross added.
"Andrew lives and farms in my constituency near Ellon and has always been extremely supportive and excellent to work with.
"At a time like this when Scottish farmers and crofters are facing multiple challenges, it is fantastic to have someone with Andrew's experience and commitment as leader of NFUS.
"From continuing to fight against Labour's family farm tax and rising fertiliser tax, to enhancing biosecurity, building resilience into farm profitability and much more, I look forward to continuing working with Andrew in the years to come."
Credentials and experience
Prior to Mr Connon's election, farmers put forward their case as to why either the Aberdeenshire farmer or Mr Macnab were worthy candidates to succeed Mr Kennedy.
Robert Thompson, NFUS pigs and poultry committee chair, from Forfar, backed Mr Connon to be the next president.
Mr Thompson said: "Andrew has the credentials and experience to take over and lead the organisation.
"I have got to know him well over the last few years and he is passionate about our members, staff and the wider industry.
"He has delivered some of the best communication skills I have ever seen.
"Andrew will find out answers to challenging questions and will ensure they are answered well.
"He can get the message across clearly.
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"He is very proud of his work and I believe the union will be in safe hands with him as president.
"Andrew will work with the team to ensure the union is the most effective [organisation] in the UK."
Alasdair Macnab
Peter Douglas, environment and land use committee chair from Roxburghshire, outlined why Dingwall farmer Mr Macnab would have been a fantastic candidate.
"This organisation has had a long and distinguished history of supporting rural and farming life for over 100 years," Mr Douglas added.
"Alasdair would continue that work and this is why I am backing him.
"He has worked hard for the union over the years. He analyses every aspect of an issue and will continue the work Martin Kennedy started in the role.
"Alasdair has worked in the union through some of the most difficult years in its history. He would be a safe and reliable president.
"Alasdair could lead the union into the 21st Century. He possess pragmatism and realism on many issues.
"Alasdair has dogged determination and has developed in the years since he became vice-president."
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