A driving force behind the success of Cotswold Farm Park for more than a decade, general manager Kate Lord has been announced as the firm's new CEO.
Experienced manager and industry expert Kate takes on the day-to-day leadership of the company this January 2025, with plans to build on the farm park's recent visitor experience, sustainability and innovation achievements — including multiple prestigious award wins.
Home of one of the UK's best known farmers and BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, Cotswold Farm Park is renowned for its collection of over 50 breeds of rare and native farm animals, offering visitors the chance to experience life on the farm with seasonal events, kids play and family holidays.
The company says that since joining as operations manager in 2011, Kate has since played a 'pivotal' role in steering the farm park through planning and building developments; navigating the challenges of Covid-19; and spearheading the business's diversification, with the expansion of events and the development of the farm park’s campsite offering.
A former student of rural enterprise and land management at Harper Adams University, Kate qualified as a rural chartered surveyor prior to joining the farm park. She says that combination of education and professional experience gave her the skills needed to balance strategic vision and operational management.
Alongside her work at the farm park, Kate also plays a role in advancing best practice and innovation across the sector as a board member of the National Farm Attractions Network (NFAN), recently serving as vice chair.
Duncan Andrews, director at Cotswold Farm Park, said of Kate's appointment: 'This decision reflects Kate’s leadership, her commitment to the business, and her ambition for business growth.
'It supports the directors’ strategy, enabling us to focus less on day-to-day operations while ensuring the long-term success of the business. Kate has consistently demonstrated the vision and capability to drive the Farm Park forward, making her the ideal choice to lead the company into its next phase.'
Kate said: 'I am honoured to step into the role of CEO at Cotswold Farm Park. This business holds a special place in the hearts of so many, and I am passionate about leading our team as we build on our heritage, innovate for the future, and continue delivering exceptional experiences to our visitors.
'Together, we will drive the Farm Park forward, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the community and a leader in sustainability.'
