Dairy industry leader receives prestigious royal award
Dr Judith Bryans, chief executive of Dairy UK, has been awarded the prestigious RABDF Princess Royal Award in recognition of her outstanding lifetime contribution to the dairy industry.
The award was presented on 22 April by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at a special ceremony at Gatcombe Park, celebrating excellence and leadership within the sector.
The RABDF Princess Royal Award is presented annually to an individual who has made a significant and lasting impact on the dairy industry. The recipient is selected by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers’ (RABDF) board of trustees, who unanimously chose Dr Bryans as this year’s winner.
Dr Bryans’ career spans decades of dedicated service, both within the UK and internationally, where her leadership and expertise have shaped key industry initiatives and strengthened the global reputation of the dairy sector.
She began her career as director of The Dairy Council before taking the helm at Dairy UK in 2013. During her tenure, she has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives, including the Dairy Roadmap, which outlines the UK dairy industry’s long-term sustainability goals and commitments. Under her leadership, Dairy UK has strengthened its voice across the entire dairy supply chain, championing the interests of farmers, processors, and consumers alike. She has also been pivotal in helping the industry to reach the public with health, nutritional and positive messages about dairy.
Dr Bryans has also forged a strong international reputation in the dairy industry, serving as president of the International Dairy Federation (IDF) from 2016 to 2020, guiding the federation through a period of significant global challenges and opportunities. She remains an honorary member of the IDF, chairs the IDF Task Force on the UN Food Systems, and co-chairs the IDF Task Force on Women in Dairying.
Her influence extends to global dairy sustainability, having served on the board of the Global Dairy Platform and is a governor of the Dairy Sustainability Framework, helping to shape international approaches to sustainable dairy production. Additionally, she sits on the board of the European Dairy Association (EDA), reflecting her standing as a key figure in European dairy policy.
Dr Bryans holds a PhD from King’s College London and is widely respected for her scientific and policy expertise, as well as her ability to build consensus and drive progress within the industry.
Commenting on the award, Dr Bryans said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the RABDF Princess Royal Award. The dairy industry continues to be my life’s work, and I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made in strengthening the sector, improving sustainability, and ensuring a bright future for the next generation of dairy farmers.”
Robert Craig, chairman of the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF), added: “Dr Bryans’ contribution to the dairy sector is truly remarkable. Her leadership and vision have not only shaped the future of the UK dairy industry but have also had a far-reaching impact on the global stage. The Princess Royal Award is a fitting tribute to her dedication, expertise, and commitment to the sector.”
During the ceremony, The Princess Royal also presented the Royal Dairy Innovation Award to Hoofcount, this year’s winners at Dairy-Tech 2025 for their automatic footbath system, PediVue Lameness Detection Device.
To learn more about both awards and past winners, visit www.rabdf.co.uk.
