Tess Howe

Tess has worked in the agriculture and horticulture industry for more than 20 years, predominantly in livestock but also in the arable and horticultural sectors.

After graduating with a degree in Agriculture from the University of Newcastle, Tess’ first industry role was as a trainee manager with a large bacon processor. Her job involved learning about every aspect of the business, including liaising with hauliers and farmers, and ensuring that the animal welfare code was adhered to by all suppliers.

Building on her livestock welfare experience, Tess went on to become a Technical Officer with the Humane Slaughter Association, improving the welfare of farmed animals during transport and at slaughter.

Tess then took up a post with BPEX (later to become AHDB Pork), where, as Skills Development Manager, she played an instrumental role in the development and delivery of the national pork training strategy.

In 2012, Tess progressed into the role of AHDB’s Senior Skills Manager. This demanding role covered all farming sectors and focused on improving industry engagement with skills development activities to support thriving agricultural businesses in a rapidly changing market.

In this post, Tess led the pivotal Skills Task Force for the Food & Drink Sector Council’s Agricultural Productivity Working Group. This included development of the strategic case and business plan for a proposed new professional body, which led to the formation of TIAH and her move into her current role.

Outside of work, Tess is very much an outdoors person, whether that is pushing herself in ultra-marathons, training her dogs, or walking with her family. Tess is also a voluntary welfare officer with her local women’s football club.