We’re pleased to welcome Hannah Waugh to the Nettex team as our new Area Business Manager for the North of England.
With a background in agriculture, veterinary pharmaceuticals and animal health, Hannah brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She’ll be covering the North of England, working closely with Nettex customers and supporting farmers with practical advice and solutions for their livestock.
We caught up with Hannah to find out more about her background, what attracted her to Nettex and what she’s looking forward to in her new role.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background in agriculture?
I’ve always had a real passion for animals and agriculture. I studied Equine Sciences at Kirkley Hall and went on to work in veterinary pharmaceuticals, covering an entire portfolio of products.
I’ve also worked as a relief milker on a local farm with around 650 cows, which gave me some great hands-on experience and an insight into the day-to-day realities of working on farm.
What were you doing before joining Nettex, and what attracted you to the role?
Before joining Nettex, I was working in ophthalmology for a leading independent provider.
Although I enjoyed the role, I was keen to get back into the animal health industry, which is where I really feel at home. The opportunity to join Nettex was very exciting because it’s a brand with an incredible reputation and such a strong range of products.
I’m really looking forward to being part of the team and getting back out to customers.
What will your new role involve, and which areas will you cover?
I’ll be covering the North of England – from the Scottish Borders down to Preston and across, essentially anything north of Leeds.
A big part of my role will be getting out and meeting customers, understanding their businesses and the challenges they’re facing, and helping them find practical solutions.
What are you most looking forward to?
Definitely supporting British farming and meeting customers.
I’m looking forward to getting out on farm, building relationships and getting to know customers. Every farm is different, so I’m keen to listen and understand what matters to each individual business.
What do you see as some of the biggest opportunities or challenges facing livestock farmers at the moment?
There are lots of pressures facing British farming, including competition from imported meat and the way farming and animal welfare can sometimes be portrayed in the media.
I think it’s really important to recognise the work British farmers do every day to care for their livestock and produce high-quality food, while also looking after the environment.
Do you have a favourite Nettex product?
I honestly can’t pick just one!
The Fresh Calver Sachets are brilliant. They’re really palatable and, because of the way they’re packaged, they make accurate dosing really straightforward.
I also really rate eCalm for horses. I’ve been using it for years on my own horses, so it’s a product I know and trust personally.
What advice would you give farmers looking to get the most from their livestock this season?
Plan ahead.
Tupping doesn’t start when the tups go out – it starts around eight weeks beforehand to help ensure good fertility rates.
Likewise, lambing doesn’t start when the first lamb is born. It starts four to five weeks pre-lambing, when it’s important to support ewes and maintain their rapidly diminishing body reserves.
Good preparation can make a real difference to livestock health and performance.
Away from work, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy spending time with my family, showing my dogs and riding my horse.
Finally, what’s one thing you’d like Nettex customers to know about you?
I’m available to them and their customers. Don’t be afraid to ask!
If I can’t help, I’ll find someone who can.
Look out for Hannah
Hannah is now out and about meeting Nettex customers across the North of England.
Get in touch with her today hannah.waugh@net-tex.co.uk