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Supporting Branch Chairs - Building Stronger Local Leadership

This week saw the first instalment of our new initiative dedicated to supporting and developing our branch chair and vice chair network. It was fantastic to have more than 50 people signed up from our branch chair/vice chairs and group secretary network. As with any new initiative, the first event is always a bit of trial and error and it is pleasing that the initial feedback has been so positive.

My key take-home from the event is that we can do more to equip and support our chairs in helping to plan positive and interesting branch meetings that generate good levels of interest and attendance and make members keen for the next meeting. Every branch has its own character, but we can absolutely provide the support to help each branch to thrive.

We have been thinking more about the importance of leadership at NFUS, and this is an area where there is an opportunity for us to do more. Branch chairs are our grassroots leaders, but leadership opportunities exist throughout the Union, from our branch networks right up to our Board of Directors and Presidential team.Taking up a leadership role at NFUS is so important for the effectiveness of the Union, and it also brings valuable opportunities to meet other members and to grow and develop your skills. Not every member will aspire to be on the Board or Presidential team, but every member undoubtedly has something positive to lend to the collective Union effort.

Our next event for branch chairs is booked for the 29th of September, and I hope that attendees from this week are encouraged to return and perhaps also encourage those from other branches to come along. We are planning for this next event to include highlights of where branches have used innovative approaches to stimulate interest. We are also building on this work by developing a wider leadership program, which we hope will help us to identify talent and to nurture members with the right skills to play key roles across NFUS.

Author: Gemma Cooper

Date Published: 02/07/2026

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Gemma Cooper

Gemma is a graduate of Harper Adams University (BSc. Hons Rural Enterprise and Land Management). She began her career in practical land management for sporting estates in Perthshire and Angus. Following several years working in agricultural business consultancy, Gemma joined NFU Scotland in 2012, with responsibility for legal and technical policy until 2018. Her current role as Head of Policy sees her have responsibility for policy on strategic supply chains and land reform and leading senior policy staff. Gemma has extensive experience of complex legislative development, advocacy and political influence on a broad range of agricultural and land use policy issues.

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