John Francis

I have always considered the freedom of working in the country, outside of an office, and the desire to be involved in agriculture as two things that appealed to me in a job. After leaving school I started an agricultural economics degree at university but it wasn’t the right time for me to be in that academic environment. I went on to acquire some operational skills as a jackaroo in the Riverina and Northern Territory and then moved into a retail agronomy role. After completing an agricultural science degree at university largely by distance education I landed my dream job (at the time) as a public sector district agronomist. After several years of working as an agronomist it struck me that I was providing investment advice to farm managers without a comprehensive understanding of the business of farming or of the real financial consequences of my advice. In a quest to acquire financial skills I moved into farm management consultancy where I learned the value of integrating the rigour of science and a knowledge of production systems with financial management skills. The key to a better understanding of farm management was unlocked to me at that point. Since then I have also learned the value of regular assessment of farm performance at both a financial and production level, and taking an evidence based approach to problem solving. I have also developed an interest in behavioural economics and social psychology which has been as much a journey of discovery of myself as it has been about the way my clients think and act. I am passionate about solving problems in agriculture. Part of the appeal of agriculture to me is that it is always presenting new challenges. It is this dynamic feature of the industry that keeps me motivated and inspired regardless of the frustration caused by some of these challenges. While I didn’t realise it at the time, each change in my direction was a career stepping-stone and each has helped me to build knowledge and skills and shape my views on an inspirational industry. Let’s face it – our industry has purpose in feeding and clothing the world. I look forward to new learnings, new business relationships and I hope I have the opportunity to work and engage with you along the way.