From growing crops, to growing farm businesses, Phillip Judd has all bases covered when it comes to ag

Whether it’s physically scratching around in the dirt, or behind the desk interpreting a spreadsheet, Phillip Judd has carved a successful career supporting farmers – both in, and out of the paddock.

A former agronomist, Phillip moved across to Rabobank 14 years ago, inspired by the opportunity to further support the agricultural industry.

And now his skills, knowledge and obvious passion for agriculture culminate in his recent appointment as the Tamworth Area Manager – a privilege he doesn’t take lightly.

“I feel extremely honoured to be leading such an experienced team, in such a diverse agricultural region, and I’m excited to help our region’s farmers, and our staff, achieve their business goals and aspirations.”

Growing up on his family’s Riverina mixed farming operation at Ariah Park, Phillip always had a keen interest in farming – particularly the agronomy and production side of the business.

“I always loved watching and learning how crops, plants and animals grow, and I continue to marvel at how farming and livestock production has evolved over the past few decades – to now have a career where I can play a small part in helping our clients in the process is extremely rewarding,” Phillip explains.

“The beauty of ag is that it affords so many career paths, there’s something for everyone and I knew quite early on I wanted to build a career supporting farmers.”

After completing a rural science degree at The University of New England in Armidale, Phillip cut his teeth as an agronomist on Moree’s black soil plains.

“It was a brilliant place to kick off my career, working with some really progressive farmers, in a region renowned for its production capability.”

“I love the science behind a good crop, and really enjoyed working with producers to try and mitigate on-farm challenges, whether they be seasonal, nutritional or managerial.”

“Agronomy was challenging and rewarding work that eventually underpinned a deeper curiosity around how I could further contribute to the ag industry.”

He said his move into rural banking felt like a natural progression, with Rabobank’s strong client focus and community values well aligned with that of the agronomy industry.

With his easy-going nature and clever wit, many of Phillip’s client relationships have evolved into genuine friendships, and it’s an aspect of the job he most enjoys.

After four years in the Moree branch, Phillip, together with his wife Belinda, and two sons Max and Harry, moved to Tamworth in 2013 to take on a rural managers role.

“It’s been a really exciting time to call Tamworth home, and more recently there is no doubt that the region has had some of its best years ever.”

“There are always challenges that face the industry, yet our Tamworth team benefits enormously from a depth of knowledge and team longevity to help our local farmers navigate whatever the season may throw at us.”

“Some of our account managers have been in the team for 20 years, working with the same clients for the entirety, and you just can’t replicate that experience.”

Most importantly, he said within the branch the team environment was hard to beat.

“We all get along well, we have a laugh and we are all very like-minded in our dedication and vision for ag, and our local Tamworth community.”

A keen sportsman, Phillip can often be found on the tennis court, where there has been a hotly contested tennis rivalry between fellow Rabobank colleagues James Maunder and Marco Cicchelli.

In more recent times, however, weekends are mostly filled with taking his own keen little sportsmen Max and Harry to events, and spending time in the garden at home.