New UFU Chief Executive Conall Donnelly takes up role

Pictured: Conall Donnelly, Chief Executive, Ulster Farmers’ Union

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has entered a new chapter as Conall Donnelly formally stepped into the role of Chief Executive last week, taking on one of the most influential leadership positions in Northern Ireland’s agricultural sector.

Mr Donnelly’s appointment, first confirmed in September, marks a significant transition for the organisation as it navigates a period of major change for farming across Northern Ireland.

He succeeds Wesley Aston, who led the Union for more than a decade and helped strengthen its standing as the leading voice for farmers in the region.

Taking up the role, Mr Donnelly acknowledged both the challenges and opportunities ahead for the industry.

“Northern Ireland’s farmers are facing a period of profound change, but also real opportunity. Following the steady leadership of Wesley Aston at the helm of the Ulster Farmers’ Union, my focus will be on ensuring the union remains a strong, credible voice for farm families and works constructively with Government and industry stakeholders to secure a sustainable future for agriculture.”

His appointment comes at a time when farming communities are confronting evolving policy landscapes, shifting market conditions and wider pressures affecting the agricultural sector.

Mr Donnelly brings a strong background in agri-food leadership to the role. Prior to becoming Chief Executive, he served as managing director of the UFU’s commercial subsidiary, Countryside Services.

His career also includes roles with the Livestock and Meat Commission and the Northern Ireland Meat Exporters Association, providing experience across both policy and industry-facing organisations.

Speaking about the responsibility of representing farmers across Northern Ireland, Mr Donnelly emphasised the importance of collective advocacy.

“I am committed to ensuring the collective voice of our members is clearly and consistently heard and I look forward to working with the team to further strengthen and develop the UFU to deliver for farming families across Northern Ireland,” he added.

As the Union enters this new phase of leadership, the organisation says its focus remains firmly on supporting farm families and shaping a sustainable future for agriculture across the region.

At a glance

• Conall Donnelly officially took up the role of Chief Executive of the Ulster Farmers’ Union last week.

• He was originally appointed to the position in September.

• Mr Donnelly succeeds Wesley Aston, who led the organisation for more than a decade.

• The new chief executive says Northern Ireland’s farming sector faces significant change but also opportunities for growth.

• He previously served as managing director of UFU subsidiary Countryside Services.

• His career also includes roles with the Livestock and Meat Commission and the Northern Ireland Meat Exporters Association.

• Mr Donnelly says his priority is ensuring farmers’ voices are clearly heard while working with government and industry to support a sustainable future.