Summary
Work history
Education
Skills
Custom
Timeline
Generic
Matthew Cowley

Matthew Cowley

Heathfield,East Sussex

Summary

Dedicated and adaptable professional with over seven years of experience in agriculture and estate management, combining hands-on operational skills with expertise in modern agricultural technology and risk management. Strong background in assessing and mitigating environmental and property risks related to natural disasters such as flooding, drought, and storms. Equipped with a solid academic foundation in agronomy, soil science, and land management. Now eager to leverage this practical knowledge and analytical mindset to transition into the insurance industry, focusing on risk assessment, claims management, and customer support. Committed to continuous learning and enthusiastic about applying my unique perspective to deliver valuable insights and solutions in insurance.

Work history

NetherField Place Farm

CTS Farms
Netherfield, East Sussex

Estate Manager (2 years)
Netherfield Place Farm, UK

  • Managed multiple properties across the farm acreage, using modern agricultural technology such as precision farming tools, GPS-guided equipment, and data-driven crop monitoring systems.
  • Integrated tech solutions for soil health analysis and irrigation management, optimizing resource use and reducing environmental risks.
  • Developed and implemented risk management strategies focused on protecting assets from natural disasters such as flooding, drought, and storms, ensuring business continuity and minimizing financial loss.
  • Conducted property and crop damage assessments post-adverse weather events, coordinating repairs and insurance claims in collaboration with insurers and adjusters.
  • Oversaw compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations, leveraging technology to monitor and report risks.

Assistant Farm manager (2 years)
Netherfield Place Farm, UK

  • Provided essential support in daily farm operations, including manual tasks such as planting, harvesting, and equipment upkeep.
  • Assisted teams with machinery setup and maintenance, ensuring safe and efficient operation under supervision.
  • Conducted routine soil sampling and basic agronomic observations to aid in crop health monitoring.
  • Supported inventory management and logistics, including storing materials and preparing fields for planting.
  • Gained practical experience in safe working practices and teamwork in a physically demanding environment.

Seeding/Planting Operator

Fullwood Grain Company
Perth, Australia
  • Operated seeding equipment for planting large-scale cereal crops.
  • Monitored and maintained machinery performance throughout seeding operations.
  • Worked independently across large field areas with responsibility for efficiency and accuracy.
  • Broadacre Farming | Western Australia

Harvest Operator

Davisons & Co
Perth, Australia
  • I did 2 harvest seasons working for Davisons and Co.
  • Operated harvest machinery including headers, tractors, and grain carts.
  • Assisted with logistics and grain handling during peak harvest season.
  • Adapted quickly to new farming methods and large-scale agricultural operations.
  • Arable Farm Contractor | Western Australia

Farm Hand / Tractor Operator

Allpress Farm
Chatteris, UK
  • Operated and maintained heavy machinery for ploughing, drilling, and harvesting.
  • Conducted machinery checks, servicing, and troubleshooting during breakdowns.
  • Worked within a small team to meet strict seasonal demands during harvest periods.

General Labourer (Seasonal Work)

Custom Build
Heathfield, UK
  • Assisted trades on construction sites by performing manual handling, preparing materials, and maintaining clean workspaces.
  • Acquired knowledge of workplace safety regulations to ensure compliance on site.
  • Developed teamwork and adaptability skills through collaboration in diverse construction environments.
  • Worked in construction industry in the UK

Education

Level 3 Extended Diploma - Soil Science, Biology, and Agriculture

Plumpton Agricultural College
Lewes

Skills

  • Agricultural technology and sustainability
  • Crop management and agronomy
  • Heavy machinery operation
  • Health and safety compliance
  • Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting
  • Pressure problem-solving skills
  • Time management expertise
  • International teamwork and adaptability

Custom

Full UK Driving Licence, Experience living and working overseas (Australia), Physically fit and capable of handling demanding workloads, Eager to retrain and transfer skills into a new career pathway

Timeline

NetherField Place Farm

CTS Farms

Seeding/Planting Operator

Fullwood Grain Company

Harvest Operator

Davisons & Co

Farm Hand / Tractor Operator

Allpress Farm

General Labourer (Seasonal Work)

Custom Build

Level 3 Extended Diploma - Soil Science, Biology, and Agriculture

Plumpton Agricultural College
Matthew Cowley