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Sector councils
Our sector councils are the voice of levy payers within AHDB, and they ensure we deliver the services that really matter to farm businesses.
The four sector councils − for Beef & Lamb, Cereals & Oilseeds, Dairy and Pork − are at the heart of AHDB’s decision-making.
They decide what programmes of work are needed to support their sectors, as well as what recommended levy rate is needed to fund that work. The delivery of these work programmes is the responsibility of the AHDB executive.
In Will Jackson's blog post in May 2022 he explains how sector councils give levy payers a greater voice, commenting that:
"Giving levy payers a greater say in how AHDB is run and what we deliver for their businesses is the only way we can stay relevant to the industry. Receiving feedback directly from those using our services will make sure we’re providing the right support needed to face the big challenges ahead."
Will Jackson, Divisional Director – Engagement
Most sector council members are levy payers from that sector. Appointments are made according to the skills candidates have, and are confirmed through a levy payer vote.
Each member will serve for a term of three years, with a maximum of two terms (levy payers will decide whether they serve a second term). Any candidate who doesn’t receive majority support will not be re-appointed.
There may also be 'independent' members who have sector experience. Where there is a material skills gap we can co-opt people on to the councils until the next round of appointments.
Sector council chairs are also members of the main AHDB board. This means that, unlike other sector council members, they are appointed by the Secretary of State for Defra, acting with the UK’s devolved governments.
Terms of reference
The roles and responsibilities for sector councils are set out in their terms of reference:
Sector council membership, council minutes and registers of interest
See the individual sector pages:
For information on former AHDB sectors (horticulture and potatoes), visit the AHDB Horticulture and Potatoes Archive.