About BGS

BGS Council

All BGS Trustees and Regional Council Members are volunteers. Most volunteers find it a rewarding experience, as they take on these roles to put something back into the society and/or industry, organising high quality activities with low delegate fees. BGS would achieve far less without the time, experience, knowledge and guidance of volunteers. Part of the reward of being a volunteer is the opportunity to network with a broad range of industry representatives on Council and to participate in the management of a forward looking organisation. For some, it enhances their career development and motivation, as well as their status in the industry. Recognising this, and keen to support the society’s work, some employers allow some of the volunteer input during the individual’s normal working hours.

Presidential Team

President
Mr Philip Cosgrave
Philip is UK Grassland Agronomist at Yara.

President Elect
Mr Graham Parks
Graham is a beef farmer from Macclesfield, Cheshire.


Past President
Dr Elizabeth Stockdale
Elizabeth is Head of Farming Systems Research at NIAB.

The Presidential Team, as Trustees of the Society, ensure the society and its resources are properly used in accordance with its Charity Objectives and in line with its Constitution and Charity Commission guidance.  They also give advice and direction to the Society CEO as necessary, on projects and overall management of the society.

A full list of previous presidents is available here.

Hon. Treasurer
Dr Phil Murray

Hon. Secretary
Dr Liz Genever

National members

Dr Felicity Crotty

Mr Luppo Diepenbroek

Mr  Paul Muto

Mhairi Dawson

National Members of Council act as Trustees of the Society, ensuring the society and its resources are properly used in accordance with its Charity Objectives and in line with its Constitution and Charity Commission guidance.  They advise other Trustees on any policies allocated to review on behalf of the Trustees and have involvement in the management of projects or events as appropriate.

Regional Council Members

The Regional Council Members provide a crucial link between the local affiliated societies and the BGS office, President and Trustees.  They facilitate a two-way flow of information between the grass-roots membership and the National Society. At Council meetings they have the opportunity to report on issues within their region, but they do not have the voting powers of Trustees in the management of the BGS.

Regional Reps

For more details of Regional activity and local grassland societies see our Local Societies section click here.

Corporate Members