Reflections on effective employee development from new entrants to the UK agriculture and agri-food sector

Toogood, C. (2025) Reflections on effective employee development from new entrants to the UK agriculture and agri-food sector. GILE Journal of Skills Development, 5 (1). ISSN 2732-3781 (In Press)

Text C. Toogood Reflections on effective employee development AAM OCR Upload 1.pdf - Accepted Version Download (777kB)

Abstract

Background: In the context of workforce challenges in UK agriculture and agri-food, workplace employee development could be a critical tool for developing human capital that supports individual and organisational success. Purpose of study: This research aimed to enhance understanding of how those entering UK agricultural and agri-food employment from non-agricultural backgrounds perceived the employee development that they experienced in their first role in the sector. Design: A mixed methods approach incorporating a survey and semi-structured interviews was used followed by statistical and thematic evaluation. Findings: Informal employee development was highly valued for professional development but formal development was perceived to have more impact on performance in role. Participants praised mentoring and opportunities for informal communication, while development processes such as induction and performance review were perceived less positively. Recommendations/Practical implications: Overall, supporting managers to develop their own skillset and knowledge on employee development, will help to create workplace environments where new entrants from non-agricultural backgrounds can be individually supported to learn, engage and develop. Research practical implication: Mentoring schemes, informal employee development, and guidance for sector managers could support employee development in the UK agriculture and agri-food sector.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	employee development, skills development, agriculture, agri-food
Divisions:	Harper Adams Business School
Depositing User:	Mrs Susan Howe
Date Deposited:	18 Aug 2025 13:13
Last Modified:	18 Aug 2025 13:13
URI:	https://hau.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/18249

Actions (login required)

Edit Item