As a way of improving member engagement in key wool producing areas, we have recruited two British Wool Field Officers operating part-time over the summer months in the areas of Derbyshire & Staffordshire and Dumfries & Galloway.

The key focus of the roles will be to raise awareness of British Wool within their respective areas by visiting auction marts, shows, and contacting farmers over the telephone to discuss this year’s wool.

Gareth Jones, Head of Member Engagement, said:

“Engaging with sheep farmers to raise awareness of British Wool activity and also on the improving wool price is key, and we felt that having a visible presence in both these traditional sheep and wool producing areas was important in achieving this.”

Meet the new Field Officers:

Dave Kowalczyk – Derbyshire & Staffordshire
Dave has over 40 years of experience in agriculture. He has owned a small beef herd and managed a flock of over 120 North Country Mules, selling his meat through a retail business. He also has ten years of experience managing fresh food and twenty-seven years in animal feed manufacturing and distribution.

Originally from Staffordshire, Dave holds an HNC in Business Studies from Staffordshire University and a RAMA qualification from Harper Adams University. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and reading, and spends time with his partner and two grown-up children.

Meet Isobel Metcalfe – Dumfries and Galloway
Isobel grew up on her family’s farm, which sparked her love for farming. She has her own flock of Rough Fells and has helped at home with her dad, she has also worked in dairy farming. Her family has a long history with British Wool, dating back to her great-grandfather, who sent wool to the company.

Isobel chose to work for British Wool because she believes they prioritise farmers and ensure they receive fair pay. She is excited to represent British Wool and support farmers in her role.