Each of the keynote speakers at Cultivate Conference have real, hands-on experience that they want to share with you. Some are specialists in management, leadership and business growth. They’ll be sharing their tips and strategies that help any rural business owner or manager to transform their operations and see instant success. Others are rural business owners themselves who’ve overseen incredible successes in their own business and want to share their stories with you.
Every speaker has been specifically chosen to speak at Cultivate because of the value and insight they can provide to those working in the rural and agricultural sector. They are all focused on helping businesses in our sector to embrace change and reach their full potential.
Paul McGee
Paul McGee is a distinguished expert in human behaviour and performance as well as a visiting Professor at the University of Chester. With a track record spanning over 30 years, he has left an indelible mark on over 1,000 organisations worldwide. From the boardrooms of multinational corporations to the training grounds of elite athletes, Paul’s insights have proven invaluable. His engagements extend far and wide, including collaborations with renowned brands such as Harrods, GSK, Adidas, and many more. Endorsements from luminaries like Sir Clive Woodward speak volumes about the depth of his impact. Paul’s association with the late Dr. Stephen Covey, a titan in the field of personal development, further highlights the calibre of his work.
Paul’s literary contributions have also made significant waves. His book ‘SUMO’ soared to the top of the Sunday Times bestseller list, while ‘Self-Confidence’ dominated the WHSmith business charts for an impressive 24 weeks.
Beyond the written word, Paul has graced the screens of BBC Breakfast television and collaborated with well-known figures such as David Dimbleby, serving as the audience warm-up for the acclaimed TV program Question Time.
TOM WARNER
Tom Warner stands as a visionary force in the spirits industry, renowned for his unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. With over two decades of expertise, Tom has firmly established Warner’s Distillery as a beacon of excellence in the world of premium gin production.
Driven by a passion for authentic flavours and a respect for nature, Tom’s journey began in 2012 when he and his partner Tina Warner embarked on a mission to redefine the gin landscape. Nestled amidst the idyllic surroundings of Northamptonshire’s rolling hills, Warner’s Distillery draws inspiration from its rich agricultural heritage, crafting spirits that capture the essence of the land.
SAMANTHA KINGHORN
Following a life-altering accident in December 2010, Samantha Kinghorn’s indomitable spirit and resilience came to the forefront. After a freak accident on her family farm, Samantha suffered a catastrophic injury, breaking her back and necessitating emergency surgery. For the next five months, she battled through the challenges of rehabilitation, her unwavering determination shining brightly even in the darkest of times.
In her own words, Samantha’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the boundless potential of the human spirit. Through her perseverance, she has not only redefined her own limitations but has also become an inspiration to countless others facing adversity.
JIM BLOOM
Jim Bloom is the founder of Warrendale Farms, a highly successful, multi-division agri-business based just outside of York.
When he took over the family business, Jim had a powerful vision. Driven by a commitment to fairness in farming, to giving others the chances he had and to bringing an honest approach to every part of the business, Jim has overseen Warrendale’s huge growth and diversification.
From poultry farming to Wagyu rearing, the Warrendale brand now includes both farmer and direct-to-consumer-focused divisions, delivering consistency, reliability and security to everyone in the food chain. Jim will share how he got here, alongside the challenges they’ve faced launching a new feedstocks and bio-gas business in the UK.