Sector Leaders Recognised in King’s Honours List
Several individuals with significant influence in agriculture and environmental policy have been recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours list. These awards come at a time of ongoing change within the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), and underline the importance of AIC Members maintaining strong engagement with policymakers.
Among those recognised:
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Janet Hughes, former Head of Defra’s Farming and Countryside Programme, received a CBE for public service. She led the rollout of the Environmental Land Management schemes (ELMs), a key policy development with implications for the agri-supply chain.
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Dr Kulin Patel, Veterinary Adviser for International Trade at Defra, was awarded an OBE for services to animal health and international trade—areas of direct relevance to AIC’s Feed and Seed Sectors.
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Shaun Spiers, Executive Director of Green Alliance and Chair of Greener UK, received an OBE for services to environmental policy and sustainability.
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Geoffrey Sansome, former Head of Agriculture at Natural England, received an MBE for services to farming and the voluntary sector.
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Andy Richardson, Chair of the Food and Drink Wales Board, was honoured for services to the Food and Drink Sector. Based in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, his leadership has been key in advancing the UK’s food and drink industry.
These honours coincide with structural changes at Defra, including a 5% headcount reduction planned for 2025/26. This context reinforces the value of AIC Members’ continued involvement in policy discussions and consultations, particularly as the regulatory and sustainability landscape evolves.
AIC remains committed to supporting its Members by engaging with government departments and stakeholders to promote modern, sustainable, commercial agriculture.
Author
Wendy Ford
Wendy Ford is Communications Manager at AIC, creating and overseeing the content published on AIC's website, emails, Member briefings, print publications, and social media.