James Miles-Hobbs MIAgrM

James has been practicing as a farm business consultant for over 30 years, specialising in renewable energy helping farmers and landowners invest in their own renewable energy projects.

After time as an equity partner with Andersons (The Farm Business Consultants) and with Savills he started his own business in 2004.

Why did you join the Institute?

In joined the Institute in 2004 when I went on my own.  Having been used to working in large consultancy organisations where I have an internal network of colleagues to bounce ideas around with, overnight this had gone.  The Institute provides a diverse network with which I could discuss and share ideas.

What have been the big advantages?

I think the events.  If you are invited to a commercially run event there is always an angle.  The Institute on the other hand just seeks to find the best speakers on the topics and burning issues at the time.  They also provide network opportunities with people in the industry you probably would not come into contact with otherwise.

CPD is also vitally important and the drive to have farm management and consultancy seen as a serious profession.

And looking forward?

The Institute can play a big role in helping equip those involved in farming to meet challenges as they arise and by helping demonstrate best practice.  A good example is the Chartered Environmentalist status because the issues surrounding environmental management will only increase.