Tom Bradshaw pays tribute to ‘superb’ and ’inspirational’ leader
Terry Jones will step down as NFU director general in 2026 after a decade in the role, the union has announced.
NFU president Tom Bradshaw described Jones as “a superb leader” who has steered the NFU through one of the most challenging periods for the industry.
“We will miss his wise council, inspiring leadership of our staff, his deep knowledge of food and farming, and his understanding of the workings of Whitehall and Westminster,” he said.
“While his leadership on the big issues of the day and his political and policy knowledge are obvious, what is less seen outside the NFU is how he has strategically changed the NFU to be a modern, increasingly resilient organisation, delivering better for our members and being able to attract and retain some of the best staff in the business.
“There’s no doubt that his legacy in this regard is one of the key things that has made the NFU fit for the future, as well as more effective in the present.”
Jones added: “By April 2026, I will have completed 10 years as director general, where it has been the privilege of my career to have worked with NFU members, officeholders and our amazing staff towards a better future for British farming and growing.
“Ten years feels like the right moment to hand the reins on and to pursue fresh challenges. Until then, my focus will be on continuously improving the operations of the NFU to ensure that it can deliver for members today and in the future.
“My hope is that the longer-than-usual 12-month notice period I will serve will ensure that the NFU has the maximum time possible to appoint a successor as director general, allowing an extensive search and a thorough handover.”
