BASIS, the independent organisation committed to raising professional standards across land management and food production, is delighted to announce 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, Ian brings 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. Robert is BASIS and FACTS qualified, and brings valuable 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) – CEO of Top Grass and Chair of the UK Lawncare Association, Tom’s 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.
• 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.

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.

Corrina Urquhart, CEO of BASIS said, "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."

In addition to welcoming the new Board members, BASIS would like to express sincere thanks to those stepping down for their outstanding service and dedication:

• Margaret May – As Chair of the Membership Committee for the past seven years, and having previously served as Honorary Treasurer and Vice-Chair, Margaret’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping BASIS’ direction, including facilitating the move to the current premises. Her dedication and commitment over many years have been deeply appreciated.
• Richard Fenwick – Stepping down as Chair of the Education & Training Committee after seven years as an Independent Board Member, Richard’s steady leadership and unwavering commitment have been highly valued. We are pleased that Richard will continue to support BASIS as an Exam Chair.
• Chris Sprigg – After ten years as an Elected Board Member, Chris has made significant contributions, particularly through his leadership of the Governance Review Group, leaving a lasting legacy of good governance. We are pleased that Chris will continue to support BASIS as part of the audit committee and as an NSK trainer.
• Sabra Everett – Sabra has served as Chair of BASIS PROMPT since 2016, leading the Register through a period of remarkable growth. Under her guidance, BASIS PROMPT has become the largest independent Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Register for pest technicians in the UK, with over 3,000 members. Her contribution to the development of the sector has been invaluable.
• David Cairns – With over 30 years’ experience in the agricultural industry, David has brought a wealth of practical knowledge and strategic insight to the BASIS Board. A BASIS Diploma in Agronomy holder and long-standing Trustee, David has consistently championed high standards in crop production, supporting audited pesticide advice and Integrated Crop Management across the UK.

BASIS extends our thanks and appreciation to all outgoing members for their dedication and commitment. Their contributions have been fundamental in shaping BASIS’ success.