Philippa Gist

Philippa studied Zoology in Falmouth and since graduating has pursued a career in food and  farming which originates from a love of the outdoors.

Her interest in sustainable food production and farming innovation has taken her to farms all over the world where she has gained experience working closely with community growing  projects and food education outreach programmes. She has specialist knowledge of horticulture systems with a strong focus on creating farm networks, knowledge exchange opportunities and running events.

In the 4.5 years before joining BART, Philippa worked at the Soil Association in several roles supporting organic businesses to implement organic standards across a range of farming and processing operations. During her time at Soil Association, she has worked as a Certification Officer, an inspector for organic farms and has been pivotal in the development of a scheme that verifies fertility inputs and pest and disease control products that promote environmental preservation.

She is looking forward to working with farmers in the Avon catchment and seeing the positive impacts good farming practices have on enhancing the local environment.