Mr Robertson has a strong background in farming and agriculture having previously served as Chief Executive of NFU Scotland and in government as Scotland’s Chief Agricultural Officer. After taking up post, he said he was looking forward to championing the industry and promoting all that farming delivers.

“Even after just a short time in post, it feels like I’ve never been away from the industry that I have worked with and for throughout my career,” he said. “I have very much appreciated the warmth of the welcome from so many people, both within the NFU and from the wider industry.

“I am hugely impressed by the knowledge and experience that exists among both NFU members and staff, which gives me great confidence about our ability to represent the industry both now and in the future.

“A thriving agricultural sector is important not just to the rural economy, but to the country as a whole. The NFU exists for its members and my focus will be very much on addressing the issues facing them and their businesses, wherever they are in England and Wales. I will be out and about over the coming weeks and I look forward to meeting members and staff and hearing about these issues first hand.”