What makes a good leader on farm? In a recent episode of Solving Staffing in Ag, host Iory Hughes speaks with Chris Manley – Nuffield Scholar and founder of Traction – about why leadership isn’t just about managing people, but about how you show up every day.
Chris argues that leadership starts with awareness. From noticing how you interact when you’re under pressure, to finding the habits that help you bring your best self to work, small shifts in mindset and behaviour can transform how teams function.
Key takeaways include:
- Leadership begins with self-awareness – especially on the tough days.
- Habits matter: sleep, food, and time away all impact how you lead.
- Be clear on the “why”: people take pride in work when they see the bigger picture.
- Always hear alternative opinions – people commit more when they feel heard.
- Make time for one-to-one conversations, even if it’s during daily tasks.
Leadership and reputation
Strong leadership builds more than good teams – it shapes your reputation as an employer. In close-knit farming communities, being seen as a good place to work is a real competitive advantage when attracting and keeping great people.
That means:
- Offering creative development opportunities, not just management roles.
- Recognising and rewarding extra responsibilities.
- Celebrating employees who move on with new skills – showing you invest in people, even when they leave.
Good leadership creates thriving teams, and thriving teams make farm businesses stronger.
Listen to the full conversation with Chris Manley here, or search RASE Farm of the Future on your podcast app.