The Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) has announced Ben Makowiecki will join their board from April 2026, replacing Corrina Urquhart, who, due to a change in career, has decided not to take up her appointment as a Director.
The charity, which has just celebrated 90 years, carried out their annual skills audit, and looked to appoint an individual who had strong knowledge of the industry, good financial acumen, and a high level of governance and political experience.
With a career spanning over 25 years in farm business consultancy and agricultural banking, and as a strong supporter of OFC, Ben was the ideal candidate.
As Agriculture Sustainability Director at Lloyds Banking Group, Ben leads the bank’s agricultural sustainability proposition, developing products and tools for customers and colleagues, as well as leading on internal and external policies and strategy.
He has regular engagement with farmers, retailers, government and NGOs, driving collaboration across the value chain to help farmers become more economically and environmentally resilient.
Commenting on the appointment, Sheena Horner, OFC27 Chair said,
“We are delighted to welcome Ben to the team, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be invaluable over the next three years. Agriculture continues to face incredible uncertainty, with financial challenges top of the agenda for many farming businesses. Through his interactions with the farming industry, Ben will be able to help guide our conference programme, so we continue to ensure business and financial resilience is a cornerstone for some of our sessions and speakers.”
The role, which is entirely voluntary, will commence at the end of April, where Ben will join a strong board of 10 individuals, each serving a three-year term.
Commenting on the role, Ben said,
“The Oxford Farming Conference is one of the most renowned agricultural conferences in the UK, and I have long admired the work that goes into delivering such a rich agenda. Each year speakers from across the world really inspire and challenge our thinking, providing productive conversations, collaborations, and act as a catalyst for change. I am looking forward to playing my part to support the development of the next three events, and continue the 90-year legacy of those before me.”
The 2027 conference, running from 6th to 8th January, will focus on “Harmony”. A theme that will consider relationships and business models, land use, global trade and international relations, our people, both those within and out of the sector, and supply chains, to name but a few topics. It will reflect the desire to be bold, seek positive change, and drive a more harmonious industry that works together for the greater good.