NSA congratulates Chief Executive Phil Stocker as he deservedly receives MBE in King’s Birthday Honours

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is delighted to announce that Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, has been awarded an MBE in recognition of his outstanding services to agriculture and animal health and welfare.

Phil joined NSA as Chief Executive in 2011. Since then he has continued the development of NSA, firmly establishing the organisation as one of the most respected and influential voices within the UK livestock sector. He has championed the interests of sheep farmers, promoted high standards of animal health and welfare and worked tirelessly to ensure the sheep sector remains central to discussions around food production, environmental management and rural livelihoods.

Previous to joining NSA, Phil worked for the Soil Association, where he developed a deep understanding of sustainable food production systems and the role livestock play within them. His experience has helped shape many of the approaches that NSA embraces today including responsible medicine use, efficient grazing management and the improvement of soil health to the benefit of crop and livestock production.  

Under Phil's leadership, NSA has continued to be a leading advocate for practical, science-based and farmer-led approaches to farming and sustainability, helping ensure sheep farming remains an efficient form of food and fibre production that is both environmentally and socially responsible and economically viable.

Commenting on receiving the honour, Phil says: "Being given this award is such an honour and it is difficult to put into words what it means to me. I am truly grateful for the recognition it gives to my work over many years and it is a privilege and a pleasure to have been able to devote much of my working life into what are central components of sustainable life on earth - agriculture and animal health and welfare. I hope this award brings future opportunities and I want to recognise the people who have been by my side through this journey and with whom I’ve worked over the years."

NSA Chairman Pete Delbridge adds: "Everyone at NSA is immensely proud of Phil and this thoroughly deserved recognition. His commitment to the sheep sector, to animal welfare and to sustainable food production has been unwavering throughout his career. Phil has represented sheep farmers with integrity, passion and professionalism, while always looking to build bridges across the wider agricultural community. This honour reflects not only his personal achievements but also the positive impact he has had on countless farmers, colleagues and stakeholders over many years."

The entire NSA team extends its warmest congratulations to Phil on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to the sheep sector continuing to benefit from his knowledge and dedication.