BASIS has announced the appointment of several new members to its board.
These appointments reflect the breadth of expertise and dedication within the industry, ensuring that BASIS continues to serve the evolving needs of its members and the wider sectors.
Joining the board are:
- Ian Graham (nominated) – chair of the Amenity Forum and managing director of Complete Weed Control, who has extensive knowledge of the amenity sector and is a passionate advocate for raising standards across the industry;
- Robert Simister (elected) – director at M.G. Simister & Son, an agricultural merchant, who is BASIS and FACTS qualified, and brings agricultural and commercial insights to the board;
- Ruth Mann (Elected) – head of integrated crop technologies at Agrii, Ruth has a broad background spanning both amenity and agriculture, offering expertise across a wide range of disciplines.
- Tom Arnold (elected) – chief executive of Top Grass and chair of the UK Lawncare Association. His background includes amenity, agriculture and pest control, ensuring a diverse perspective to support BASIS’ aims.
- Paul Blackhurst (interim independent chair – PROMPT) – head of the Technical Academy at Rentokil; Paul is a passionate advocate for advancing the pest control sector and will bring a fresh perspective to the role of chair for BASIS PROMPT on an interim basis;
- Nigel Francis (independent chair – education & training) – Having recently retired from a distinguished career as an agronomist with Agrii, Nigel brings over 20 years’ experience as a BASIS exam chair to this new role; and
- Jim Egan, (independent chair – membership) – Jim brings a wealth of experience as a former environment and farming specialist at Frontier, GWCT and FWAG, and will help guide BASIS’ membership strategy.
Corrina Urquhart, chief executive of BASIS, said: “These appointments underline BASIS’ commitment to equipping members with the knowledge and skills to meet challenges across the sector, from technological advancements and regulatory changes to shifts in the natural environment.
“I’m proud to welcome such passionate and dedicated professionals to the BASIS board. Their expertise will help us continue raising standards across the industry. We’re also very grateful to those stepping down for their invaluable contributions.”