New team at helm of women’s organisation

Heather Wildman and Carole Brunton have been appointed as chair and vice-chair respectively of Women in Agriculture Scotland (WIAS) and will lead the organisation’s work to create a more progressive, successful and inclusive industry.

Appointed at the recent AGM, Heather and Carole said they want their combined experience to help shape the focus of WIAS through the delivery of regional events and workshops.

Based in Dumfries and Galloway, Heather has more than 26 years’ experience working with farmers and agricultural stakeholders across the UK to meet industry challenges and changes head on. She became a RHASS director in 2019 and in 2012 completed a Nuffield Farming scholarship on the topic of communication – influencing and motivating change.

Vice-chair Carole Brunton, based in Fife’s East Neuk, is a project coordinator with Royal Highland Education Trust, alongside working on her family farm.

In addition to the new leadership team, WIAS – which has more than 750 registered members – elected three members to join the committee for a three-year term. Ailsa Smith, Doreen Anderson and Iona Smith bring with them a wide range of skills and experience in social media, governance, marketing and facilitation to complement the existing committee.