NFU Mutual has announced Sarah Simpson will be joining its board as a non-executive director, with effect from September 2, 2024.

Sarah has a career in rural policy, amassing over 20 years of invaluable experience.

She graduated from the University of Edinburgh in 1996, before spending more than a decade in senior positions at NFU Scotland.

She is a member of the Agriculture Reform Implementation Oversight Board, a farmer-led group established to support the Scottish Government’s policy reform, and is a Trustee of Scottish charity, the Hannah Dairy Research Foundation.

In 2017, Sarah became director of Simpson Farms Ltd, where she oversees the financial management and strategic planning of a family dairy farm alongside her husband, who she has three children with.

In recognition of her outstanding contribution to the understanding, efficiency, and well-being of UK agriculture, Sarah was awarded a Fellowship by the Royal Agricultural Societies in 2023.

Commenting on the appointment, Jim McLaren, chairman of NFU Mutual, said: “I am delighted to welcome Sarah to NFU Mutual’s Board. Sarah’s extensive knowledge of the agricultural sector and rural policy, gained over many years, is complemented by her experience on various Boards and her hands-on involvement in running a highly successful family farming business. This experience equips Sarah to be a valuable asset to NFU Mutual as we continue to adapt to the evolving insurance demands of the farming sector and the wider rural economy.”

Sarah added: “As the UK’s leading rural insurer, NFU Mutual is dedicated not only to supporting its members, but also to protecting the wider rural community and their livelihoods through numerous initiatives.

“I am delighted to be joining NFU Mutual and look forward to contributing to their impactful work in rural areas.”