The Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM) and the British Institute of Agricultural Consultants (BIAC) have merged to form the Society of Agriculture (SocAg).
Launched on January 1st, the new organisation claims it marks a significant step forward for professionalism within UK agriculture, aiming to be the UK’s leading independent professional body for agricultural consultancy and management.
Simon Britton, Chairman of SocAg, says it will unite expertise from farming, consultancy, rural business and environmental management, providing a single, authoritative platform for independent advice, leadership, collaboration and professional development. “UK agriculture is operating in a period of profound transition. The sector faces sustained pressure from market volatility, rising costs, climate and environmental change, evolving policy frameworks, labour constraints, and rapidly advancing technology. At the same time, there is growing expectation for agriculture to deliver food security, environmental stewardship and economic resilience.
“These challenges are interconnected and strategic in nature. They demand more than technical competence alone — they require confident, highly skilled professionals who can lead change, interpret complexity, influence decision-making and support businesses through long-term transformation.”
The society will set out to champion professional excellence with a membership framework founded on Continuing Professional Development (CPD). A central ambition of SocAg is to pursue chartered status for excellence and leadership in agricultural consultancy and management.
“Professions such as accountancy, surveying and environmental management have long benefited from the credibility and trust that chartership provides,” adds Simon. “Agriculture deserves the same formal recognition. Chartered status would set a clear benchmark for professionalism, accountability and leadership, and give the sector a stronger, more credible voice with government, industry and the public.”
For more information, visit www.soc-ag.org
