Why Debbie would be an effective mentor
- Debbie Handley is an experienced diversification expert who has worked in the voluntary, public and private horticulture sectors in Wales since 2007. Debbie was appointed as Farming Connect’s first horticulture officer in 2019, giving her an in-depth knowledge of the services available to commercial growers in Wales as well as a wide network of sector contacts. Having given up that full time role due to other work commitments, she is now looking forward to mentoring current and potential growers.
- Debbie’s specialism is facilitating horticultural networks to enable commercial growers to develop sustainable, viable business through a combination of both business and practical training and one-to-one support. If you’re thinking of ‘dipping your spade’ into this sector or expanding an existing ‘horti’ enterprise, she might be just the expert to keep you on track! Not only has Debbie advised and supported countless small businesses and farmers, but she also practices what she preaches at home!
- Since 2013, Debbie and her husband Phil – a well-known horticulturist – have owned Mostyn Kitchen Garden, a 2.5 acre Victorian walled garden in Flintshire.
- The couple have developed the garden over the last ten years, growing a wide range of flowers, fruit and vegetables using sustainable systems. With Debbie focusing on the business development side, they have also set up a number of successful diversified enterprises.
- Successful spin-off ventures include creating a new kitchen where since 2015, they have processed a wide range of jams, chutneys and vinegars from their own produce which were supplied to local shops until 2022. They are now all sold directly to the public.
- The couple started off running a veg box scheme for local families and this has now been developed into a popular seasonal PYO enterprise for pumpkins, flowers, strawberries and other soft fruits.
- They also offer bouquet and Christmas wreath making classes, tours of the garden and the garden has proved a popular location for numerous fundraising events for local charities.
- Expect to be inspired by Debbie’s knowledge and enthusiasm for launching and promoting new ‘horti’ related ventures and learn how you too can succeed in this burgeoning sector.
Current farm business
- 2013 to date – co-owner of Mostyn Kitchen Garden, responsible for business development and strategy, marketing and publicity, social media, direct sales, networking and events planning.
Qualifications/achievements/ experience
- 2007 – 2016 General Manager of the Rural Regeneration Unit delivering the Community Food Cooperative Programme across Wales.
- 2016 – 2019 Enterprise Lead with Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council working with charities and social enterprises to develop their business and develop training packages.
- 2019 – 2023 Freelance contractor for Farming Connect and Tyfu Cymru working with commercial horticulture farms and inspiring farmers to consider horticulture through knowledge transfer and project work.
- June 22 – June 2023 Evaluator for PLANED’s Community Food Distribution Initiative and Pembrokeshire Fresh Community Vending projects.
- July 2022 – Present Director Of Slow Food Cymru, an international movement with one simple mission “Good, clean and fair food for all.’
- April – August 2023 Horticulture Sector Officer for Farming Connect developing projects and supporting farmers to develop their business in line with the Sustainable Land Management aims.
Relevant qualifications & training
- Certificate in HR Practice
- Institute of Learning & Management certificate
- Adult Teaching Certificate
- City & Guilds Customer Service certificate
- Food Hygiene certificate
- Basic counselling skills
Top tips for business success
“Do your research, stay focused and grow what people want to buy not what you think they might want!”
“Use your time wisely to remain financially viable – only spend time and energy when you’re reasonably certain of the sales potential.”