Last call for applications: Farm business management program

Media Release May 23, 2011 1

Last call for applications for 2011 farm business management program

Applications are to close at the end of this month for this year’s Rabobank Executive Development Program, New Zealand and Australia’s leading agricultural business management course.

Now in its twelfth year, the prestigious Rabobank program offers leading farmers from across both countries, and a range of agricultural sectors, the opportunity to develop and enhance their business management skills.

Rabobank business programs manager Nerida Sweetapple says the Executive Development Program is constantly evolving to reflect the changing challenges and opportunities in agriculture. “A core focus for this year’s program will be to provide the participating producers with a range of commercial management skills to help them handle the increasingly changeable and challenging agricultural environment,” she said.

Delivered in two week-long residential modules held across consecutive years, the program covers the latest practices in business management, leadership, strategic planning, finance, human resources, value chain management and marketing and how these can be applied directly to participants’ farm businesses.

Only 36 applicants are accepted for each year’s intake, selected from a group of leading farmers from a range of commodities and geographical locations in New Zealand and Australia.

Ms Sweetapple says many past participants credit the Executive Development Program with giving them the tools and inspiration to develop their farm businesses to the next level.

“What they take away from the program is a commercially-driven perspective on farm management and the management tools that enable them to put systems and structures in place to manage growth. Plus they get inspiration and stimulation from both the program’s industry-leading presenters and their fellow participants,” she said.

The first module of the Executive Development Program will be held in Sydney, Australia from August 21 to 26, 2011, with the second module taking place in July next year.

Primary producers interested in further information on the program or an application form can contact Nerida Sweetapple on +61 2 8115 4139 or visit www.rabobank.com.au/bmp .

ENDS

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