CONTINUING TO TALK TO GOVERNMENT

David Withers, managing director of Iseki UK & Ireland, was inaugurated as the AEA's new President this week at the Association's AGM and Conference that took place at the Institution Of Civil Engineers building in Westminster, London.

In his address to delegates, David said, "It’s truly an honour and a privilege to take on the presidency of the AEA. I’m very grateful to my colleagues in the AEA who’ve made this happen. I never thought when I came into this industry that I’d have this opportunity."

David continued, "Like so many others I came into this industry by accident. There aren’t many kids that leave school, begging to be a turf machinery salesman!

"But having got into this industry, I’ve never in 35 years considered leaving. It really is a great industry, where people still matter – and where the products make a difference to people’s lives. Whether that’s for growing food or for use in the beautiful environments that we maintain for recreational activities. I’ve also had the opportunity to visit customers in over 50 countries around the world, in beautiful settings, explaining the benefits of my turf machinery and mowers. It’s been amazing."

David Withers photographed by the AEA

David looked back on his career, saying, "For me, I started in the late 80s, working as a demonstrator for Charterhouse Turf Machinery, demonstrating VertiDrains. Followed by 24 years at Ransomes, including 6 years working in the States, which was an amazing privilege. And now I'm in my 5th year working with lovely tractors and mowers at Iseki - and I’ve enjoyed it all. I’ve worked with some great people and made lasting friendships."

Talking about what he hoped to achieve in his new role as AEA President, David explained, "I’m really looking forward to this next year, working with Ruth and her fabulous team at Samulson House, to continue the progress that has been made over recent years. I also really want to thank Les and Shaun for their leadership over the last few years where the AEA has really made great progress – particularly I think, with the acquisition of BAGMA, which is a huge step forward for both organisations. I think it’s beneficial for all members. For so many years this has seemed like a great fit, so it has been wonderful to see it finally brought over the line.

"One of the many benefits of the AEA’s acquisition of BAGMA is the ability to talk to stakeholders and the government in particular, representing the entire supply chain rather than just parts of it.

"It will become even more important to keep talking to government as we move into further regulatory changes and possible divergence from European standards - as well as into new technologies in AI, autonomy, electrification and power sources."