Mr Philhower has spent over 30 years of his career working globally within the agricultural sector including US attaché to the EU and WTO and economist at the World Bank's China Department before arriving to the UK 20 months ago.

Now about to move on, he will reflect on what he has seen and heard on the UK and European agricultural scene, what he regards as our strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats for the future as well as how he envisages UK agriculture progressing.

This will include the ongoing development of the EU – US Free Trade Agreement, CAP Reform, the end of dairy quotas and the subject of GM crop uptake. Gene will also give a Big Picture view of what is happening in the US and world agriculture and sustainable intensification.

Mr Philhower will bring to a close the day’s conference on 26 November themed ‘Farming for the Future - delivering sustainable intensification’ and covering a comprehensive range of topics led by an inspiring line-up of speakers featuring a mix of farm managers, farmers and industry influencers scheduled by event organiser, the Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM).

“We are delighted that Gene Philhower has accepted our invitation to address the one day event which is designed to inspire and challenge farmers, farm managers and industry influencers alike,” says IAgrM director, Richard Cooksley.

“Sustainable intensification is going to be a call we are going to have to rise to so we can feed the world a healthy and varied diet. Gene will bring a new dynamic to discussing the challenge.”