Courtney Lunn
Technical Operations Manager - Pigs
When were you first interested in being a Technical Operations Manager - pigs?
When I started with the pig and poultry team in April 2020. I knew that I had the abilities to become a manager and jumped at the opportunity when it was available.
What inspired you to pursue a career in it?
I was fascinated by agriculture from the age of 15 with no family in the business, I just found my way into it and never left. I knew that I didnt want to work on a farm specifically (although I still do on occasion as I cant help myself) but still wanted to be part of the change for the future of farming, so joined NSF, The Public Health and Safety Organization, as I liked their vision and what they could provide me in a job.
What is your daily role look like?
I usually check my emails first thing and deal with any queries, then I usually run the risk-based approach (RBA) data base, to see if any audits have flagged for an unannounced spot check, and sort that out. I ensure that all audits coming up to their 28-day deadline are either chased or suspended, speak to farmers and auditors on the phone, and deal with all the general running of the pig scheme with my brilliant team, Bex and Grace.
Describe your job in three words
Challenging, interesting and exciting.
What is the working culture of the business you work for?
Very relaxed, easy going and fun.
What qualifications did you have to get?
I had to have a degree in an agriculture related subject or equivalent, to which completed my BSc (Hons) Bioveterinary Science degree at Harper Adams University. Although it may not sound agriculture related, doing my degree at one of the UKs leading agriculture university meant it was more heavily farm animal related.
What training opportunities have you had within your role?
Loads. I have undertaken my Red Tractor Pig and Poultry exams, been trained to become an M&S Select Farm Pork auditor, Excel training, and today I will be involved in the livestock transport training.
Are their opportunities for professional development and if so what do those look like?
I am hoping to become trained as an auditor in the future, to further develop my career opportunities and professional development. Since starting with NSF in July 2019, I have had 3 jobs so there are always opportunities available.
What are the top things three you love about your job?
- That every day is different, keeps me on my toes
- Speaking to some of the biggest pork and poultry producers daily
- Being involved in meetings with key players in the industry
What challenges you?
People not reading emails/ returning calls.
What frustrates you?
When members get constant reminders that they will be suspended, then call up angry that we have suspended them.
What's the biggest misconception about being an Technical Operations Manager - Pigs?
A lot of people think I am an auditor, but unfortunately, I dont get to see any pigs on a daily basis (only in photos).
Best piece of advice you've had?
If it makes sense to you, it doesnt have to make sense to anyone else.
Who is your hero and why
Most likely Steve Irwin and his family, their enthusiasm always makes me smile, and how they continue with Steves legacy is beautiful.
What was the last book you read
I just finished Small Pleasures by Clare Chambers; it was a lovely read but a sad ending.
What do you never leave home without
These days, my water bottle trying to reduce my plastic waste/buy drinks that are not good for me.
What might surprise people about you?
Ive lived in 3 countries and in the UK, 7 counties.
You're the Prime Minister for the day - what would you change?
After just finishing 'This is going to hurt' on BBC, I would increase funding to the NHS.
Describe the purpose of your job to someone who has never heard about it before?
I oversee the post audit process Red Tractor audits and all its challenges - I usually start with, have you heard of Red Tractor? when people ask.
Complete the sentence - The future of Farming is...
Challenging.
What is your favourite British dish to cook?
I dont cook a lot of British dishes, although I do make a mean Sunday Roast.
What do you wish you had known sooner about working in agriculture?
That it really is a tough industry, but it's so rewarding and the people in it are some of the best people you will meet in your life.
How do you like to relax and improve wellbeing?
Horse riding, going out for dinner, cooking, baking, walking the dog, reading, and housework - sounds strange but clean house equals a clean mind.
