So Elin, tell us a bit about yourself:
I am very fortunate to live on a mixed beef, sheep and arable farm in Mid-Wales. The farm runs a flock of 1200 breeding ewes and 140 suckler cows. In 2021, I established my own small herd of pedigree Limousin cattle.
I have recently graduated a degree in BSc Agriculture (with Integrated year in industry) from Aberystwyth University.
Outside of work, I am an active member of my local Young Farmers club and enjoy socialising with my friends.
What is your role in Oxbury and when did you join?
I joined Oxbury in September 2022 as a placement student in the Sales team. Doing my placement at Oxbury provided me with an excellent understanding of the financial industry and the opportunity to build strong relationships with professionals in the industry.
Following a successful placement year, I was fortunate to have been offered a permanent position as an Agricultural Relationship Manager and I look forward to my full return in September 2024.
Tell us about your background and how that has led to you working at Oxbury and the role that you are in?
Growing up on the farm, I knew a career in agricultural was for me – but doing what and where was still to be decided. Having opted to undertake a year in the industry during my university degree and having enjoyed the financial modules of the course, I came across Oxbury Bank. I had no idea what a placement year in a bank would entail and whether an office-based role would be right for me. However nearly two years on, I am pleased to be working in an agricultural bank that fulfils both my agricultural and financial interests.
How do your colleagues describe you in 3 words?
- Caring
- Driven
- Cheerful
What do you like most in your current role?
No two days are the same at Oxbury! I enjoy being able to support fellow famers to achieve their goals and ambitions as well as supporting them through the tougher times including things such as, TB restrictions and increased interest rates and inflation. My job allows me to travel across the UK, visiting farm businesses and experiencing the vast differences within the sector of the industry.
What is your proudest moment from working at Oxbury?
At the end of my placement year in 2023, I was awarded Aberystwyth University “Best performance on an integrated Year in Industry”.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself or an interesting, yet unhelpful fact that you know?
I am extremely privileged to have been awarded and shortlisted for the British Farming Awards ‘Agricultural Student of the Year 2024’. As a young female in the agricultural industry, I believe it’s crucial for the next generation’s voices to be heard. I hope to inspire new entrants and help them discover the wide range of possibilities available within the agricultural industry.
My claim to fame is that I have danced in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom (where Strictly Come Dancing dance during Week 9!)