Johnny Wake has been awarded the 2026 John Nix Award

Courteenhall Estate is delighted to announce that Dr Johnny Wake DL has been awarded the 2026 John Nix Award, presented by The Worshipful Company of Farmers in recognition of excellence in rural business management and leadership.

The award was presented following the Company’s Annual Agricultural Lecture and Dinner at Plaisterers’ Hall, London, by Stephen Watkins, Senior Warden of The Worshipful Company of Farmers, alongside Graham Redman of The Andersons Centre.

The citation recognised the remarkable transformation of Courteenhall Estate since Johnny completed the Business Growth Programme, highlighting the development of “a new, clear mission, a strategy and a solid business plan.” It also praised the significant growth of the team, dramatic financial improvements, expanded community engagement, and the Estate’s evolving environmental work and direction.

The citation further noted Johnny’s commitment to lifelong learning and leadership development, including his encouragement of senior team members to undertake further professional education through the Challenge for Rural Leadership Course. It also referenced his recent recognition as recipient of Cranfield School of Management’s 2025 Entrepreneur Alumni Award.

The John Nix Award, established in memory of Professor John Nix, honours graduates of the Company’s flagship Business Management and Rural Leadership programmes who have gone on to achieve outstanding success within rural businesses and the wider agricultural sector.

Speaking after the ceremony, Johnny Wake said:

“I am deeply honoured to receive the John Nix Award. This recognition reflects the extraordinary work, commitment and belief of the entire Courteenhall team. The transformation we are seeing across the Estate — in our business, our environmental work and our engagement with people and community — has only been possible because of the incredible individuals around me.”

Johnny also announced that the £1,000 prize money associated with the award will be donated to New Leaf Learning, reflecting the Estate’s ongoing commitment to education, opportunity and rural leadership development.

The evening brought together many leading figures from across agriculture, land management and the rural economy, celebrating innovation, leadership and collaboration within the sector.

Courteenhall Estate would like to extend sincere thanks to The Worshipful Company of Farmers, the WCF Alumni Association, The Andersons Centre, and all those involved in organising the event, particularly Philip Wynn OBE for his support and nomination.

The Estate remains committed to building a resilient, sustainable and community-focused rural business for future generations.

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