Julian Sayers has been made an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Agricultural University in recognition of his long career advising farmers and land owners on the many aspects of rural property.

He graduated from what was then the Royal Agricultural College (RAC) in 1982. He has maintained close links with the University, sitting on a number of its Boards, acting as Chair of the Real Estate and Land Management (RELM) Advisory Council and serving as a Governor for nine years.

He has held senior positions at a number of the land based sector’s major organisations including chairing the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Rural Faculty, the Oxford Farming conference and the Farmers Club. Last year he served as Master of the Worshipful Company of Farmers, and is the long serving chair of the Defra Tenancy Reform Industry Group.

He told Graduates: “I am hugely honoured to receive my Fellowship from the Royal Agricultural University which means a great deal to me as I have been involved with this unique academic institution for the past 40 years.”

“My working life has been all about the people I deal with day to day, against a backdrop of rural property in its many guises. Strong working relationships are one of the keys to success along with lifelong learning, establishing contacts for support and guidance and taking opportunities that come your way. Upon leaving the RAU the world is your oyster and the University and its strong alumni network are there to support you.”

Professor Joanna Price, Vice Chancellor of the RAU said: Julian Sayers is a visionary leader whose contribution to society and duty of service go hand in hand with his professional success. He is an inspirational role model for our students and we are delighted to welcome him to our community of Honorary Fellows.