Three YFC members are vying for the two Vice Chair positions on NFYFC’s Council this February, with Council members set to cast their votes to decide the successful candidates. Meanwhile, the Chair position will be uncontested.
James Nixey from Buckinghamshire is the sole candidate for the position of Chair of NFYFC Council. After serving two consecutive years as Vice Chair, he is now stepping forward to lead the Council.
James, a self employed Electrician, has also been the Chair of the Membership and Marketing Steering Group for the last year and is a Club Leader for Princes Risborough YFC.
Describing himself as a confident communicator, James is keen to bring a wide-range of skills to the role of Chair and in his ongoing position on NFYFC’s Board of Management.
“I run my own business so have an in-depth understanding of processes, finances and decision making. Also, I am a very driven person who strives to succeed. I strongly believe that my communication skills make me an effective team member and I’m very passionate about steering YFC to be the best organisation it can be.”
Supporting James will be the two Vice Chair roles, and Council members will need to select these from the four candidates. Those standing for election include current Vice Chair Jessica Rose from Nottinghamshire, Bruce Gardiner from Northamptonshire and Alex McMenemy from County Durham.
Jessica, who has just completed her first year as Vice Chair, is also NFYFC's Membership and Marketing Steering Group Vice Chair and is a former County Chair for Nottinghamshire.
Jessica, a Customer Service Manager at a clothing boutique, says she has learnt a lot in her first year on the NFYFC Board.
“I have a wealth of knowledge in many areas of YFC from my 13 years as a member. I plan to call upon this experience to bring the voices of the members to the Board.
“My previous year as NFYFC Vice Chair of Council means I now have experience of how the Board runs. I also understand the challenges we have faced. I have formed great relationships with the current Board members and know how to work efficiently with the team for the good of our Federation.”
Competing for the Vice Chair vacancy is Alex McMenemy from County Durham, winner of the 2024 Senior Member of the Year competition. Alex, who is an Agriculture Regulatory Inspection Officer with the Environment Agency, has held many club and county roles – including Club Secretary, Treasurer, County Competitions Chair and County Chair.
Alex hopes to bring “thorough knowledge of YFC from grassroots through to National Council level.” Alex is a keen communicator and experienced manager – with responsibilities for the staff team in the county office.
Alex said: “I always believe in listening carefully to members’ views. I always have a willingness to learn.”
Bruce Gardiner from Northamptonshire would also like to be considered for the Vice Chair position and hopes his roles at County, Area and national levels will stand him in good stead.
Bruce, a Project Officer (Landscape Recovery) & Ecologist, describes himself as being committed to learning and self-development and has financial and legal experience he can share with the Board.
“Having been a Young Farmers' member for just under 10 years now I am well versed with the workings of the structure, as well as the challenges that can be faced at all levels of its management, along with the potential opportunities that can bring,” said Bruce.
The elections for the NFYFC Officer team will take place on 23 February 2025 in Warwickshire. YFC members should speak to their Council representatives about the elections.
On the Saturday before the Council gather, NFYFC will be hosting its annual Summit meeting to discuss future planning for YFC. All members are invited to attend this meeting and to be part of the discussions. See here for more information and to secure your place.
