ELEANOR Kay has joined Scottish Land and Estates from Rothamsted Research.

Ms Kay will take on the new role of adviser on agriculture, focussing on issues such as post-Brexit agriculture policy and support, delivery of public goods and progressing the natural capital agenda, Scotland’s Land Use Strategy, climate change, water quality, and soil health.

She will also be involved in developing opportunities for new entrants to agriculture, as well as supporting SLE’s work on women in agriculture and agricultural holdings.

She said: “I’m delighted to be joining SLE at such an important moment for Scottish agriculture. This sector is facing an uncertain future with big changes on the horizon, and I’m looking forward to playing my part to help Scotland’s farmers thrive.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to get more involved in policy creation as well as providing advice directly to farming businesses. I’m excited to begin work and hopefully use my knowledge to assist our members who are passionate about creating a strong and successful rural Scotland.”

Executive director at SLE, Sarah-Jane Laing, said: “Agriculture is one of the key sectors for SLE members and the knowledge that Eleanor brings to this role, especially on innovation and knowledge exchange, will be extremely useful as Scotland’s farming sector looks for new ways to improve its resilience and plan for life outside of the European Union.”

SLE head of policy, Katy Dickson, added: “Eleanor was an outstanding candidate for the role and will be a great asset to the organisation. The wealth of experience, knowledge and passion Eleanor brings will mean she can make an important contribution straight away.”