We are shining a spotlight on women working in the animal feed and pet food sectors in our series - The Female Vision: Women in Feed.
In the latest installment, we talk to Dr Jules Taylor-Pickard, global technical director at Alltech.
Career path
Can you share your journey into the feed industry? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field, and what challenges did you face along the way?
I grew up on a sheep and beef farm in the UK, so pursuing a career in agriculture was a natural choice for me. Initially, I set my sights on Veterinary Science, driven by a deep passion for animals and a desire to improve their health and well-being. This passion remains a core aspect of my work today at Alltech, where I’m fortunate to address these goals daily.
However, upon finishing school, I decided to take a broader approach and pursued an Honours Degree in Animal Science, as it offered diverse career opportunities. My innate curiosity for science then led me to undertake a PhD in Animal Health, where I explored deeper aspects of animal care and well-being.
More recently, my focus has shifted towards sustainable agriculture, a cause that aligns closely with Alltech’s vision. We believe that agriculture and the feed industry hold the greatest potential to positively shape the planet’s future. By prioritizing food production and environmental sustainability, and improving animal health, we can drive practices that are not only more sustainable but also enhance food security and minimize agriculture’s environmental impact. These efforts are critical as we strive to feed a growing global population in a way that ensures long-term sustainability.
Impact of gender
In your experience, how has being a woman influenced your career in the feed industry? Have you encountered any gender-specific challenges or opportunities?
When I first entered the feed industry, it was heavily male-dominated—a dynamic that felt familiar to me, having grown up in a similarly male-dominated farming community. I didn’t find it particularly challenging, as Alltech has always been highly supportive of women, recognizing our potential to be leaders, innovators, and advocates for both the organization and the industry.
Throughout my career, I’ve had access to the same opportunities as my male colleagues, with recognition and promotion always based on merit.
Mentorship and support
How important have mentorship and networking been in your career? Can you share any specific experiences where support from other women or mentors made a difference?
I believe mentorship and networking are essential tools for career growth, opening doors to opportunities, fostering professional development, and providing critical support to navigate career complexities. They help build meaningful relationships and lay the foundation for long-term success.
When I entered the industry over 20 years ago, formal mentorship programs were uncommon. However, I quickly identified colleagues and consultants I could rely on for advice and guidance. Today, I strive to reflect this experience with my own team. I have a strong relationship with my colleagues, and they know I’ll always have their back. I firmly believe that camaraderie within a team is vital for success.
I also think it’s important to allow team members to make mistakes and learn from them. Sometimes, even if I suspect a suggestion may not work, I encourage them to proceed so they can grow from the experience. As we often say at Alltech, echoing our late founder Dr Pearse Lyons: “Don’t ask for permission; beg for forgiveness.”
In addition to supporting my team, I believe in giving back to the industry. I serve on several professional organizations, such as my role as Chair of British Poultry Science, and I actively participate in mentorship programs to help guide the next generation of leaders.
Industry changes
What changes have you observed in the feed industry regarding gender diversity and inclusion over the years? What more needs to be done to improve representation and equity?
It’s wonderful to see more young women joining our industry. Rooms at industry events are no longer dominated by men with just the occasional woman, which reflects the significant progress we’ve made.
However, to further enhance representation, we need to focus on engaging the next generation early—ideally when they are beginning to consider career paths or even earlier. It’s important to demonstrate how rewarding and impactful a career in the feed industry can be. While the industry hasn’t historically been seen as particularly attractive, this perception is shifting, and I believe it will continue to evolve positively.
Highlighting role models is also crucial. Showcasing the achievements and positive influence of women in leadership can inspire others and reinforce the value of diverse representation within the industry.
Advice for future generations
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the feed industry? Are there specific skills or experiences you believe are essential?
Go for it! It’s important to take a proactive approach and have confidence in your skills and abilities. Build your network by attending industry events—it’s easy to decline because you’re busy, but it’s essential to view these opportunities as part of your role and an investment in building your personal brand.
Join professional groups and use social media strategically to connect with others in the industry. Developing a diverse network early in your career will pay dividends throughout your professional journey.
Focus on continuous development. Identify any skills you need to acquire or improve, and commit to ongoing learning, whether through self-study, mentorship, or formal courses. Most importantly, believe in yourself and actively promote your capabilities.
Vision for the future
What is your vision for the role of women in the feed industry over the next decade? How can we work together to foster an environment that supports women’s growth and leadership?
I envision a future where women are not just represented but are integral to driving achievements in sustainability, innovation, and industry growth. What does this mean in practice? It’s about achieving better representation of women across all levels, particularly in senior executive roles, fostering a balanced workforce that values and reflects diversity. Women have the potential to be powerful advocates shaping the future of the industry.
To foster an environment that supports women’s growth and leadership, we need to cultivate an inclusive culture of respect and belonging. This includes encouraging open communication, practicing allyship, and actively supporting women in the workplace. Work-life balance should be a priority for everyone, not just women, and flexible working conditions should be embraced where possible. Personally, I strive to be flexible with my team, and in return, they are flexible with me—it’s a mutual approach that benefits everyone.
Helping women build their profile is also crucial. Encouraging them to write articles or blogs, network, and join professional organizations can significantly raise their visibility in the industry. Companies should provide internal and external mentorship programs and implement fair, transparent policies for compensation, bonuses, and promotions.
Finally, it’s essential to celebrate achievements—whether by women or men—by recognizing and appreciating a job well done. Recognition is a powerful motivator and reinforces a culture of mutual respect and success.
