Back in November, we loved sharing our Career Development spotlight with you, where we showcased the incredible talent within our team. It was a fantastic opportunity to highlight the dedication, passion, and expertise that drive our business forward.
Because of the overwhelmingly positive response, we’re excited to make this a more regular feature and introduce you to more of our team! Each spotlight will introduce you to a different team member, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the people who make Cogent what it is.
To kick things off, we’re thrilled to introduce Elain Evans, whose journey from farm life to Genetics Consultant is nothing short of inspiring. Read on to learn how she built her career, her passion for the industry, and the impact she’s making in North Wales!
Growing up on a family farm, Elain Evans has always had her fingers on the pulse of British agriculture. Now, as a Genetics Consultant for Cogent Breeding in North Wales, she's helping farmers across the region optimise their herds through strategic breeding decisions.
From Down Under to North Wales
Before joining Cogent in 2022, Elain's agricultural journey took her across the globe. After embarking on a six-month working adventure in New Zealand and Australia – making it home just one day before the COVID lockdown began – Elain gained valuable experience managing calf sales and specialising in milk powders at Buitelaar.
"I’ve always had a passion for genetics," Elain explains. "When I spotted the Genetics Consultant role advertised in North Wales, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn't miss."
Building from the Ground Up
Starting with zero customers and no AI round in her region, Elain has worked hard with many progressive farmers in North Wales to build up a healthy ledger and establish an impressive AI round. Her secret? Pure determination and a 'never give up' attitude.
"I pride myself on self-motivation," she shares. "Even when faced with farms already committed to other providers, I never see it as a closed door. There's always an opportunity to discuss other aspects of herd improvement, whether it's heat detection collars or colostrum management."
Another key part Elain credits with her success has been the support from Cogent. From the buddy system and training employed for new starters, that saw her shadowing and working closely with Dafydd Williams, to the selfless support of team members like Richard Pearce, Elain recognises they were vital for her getting to where she is today.
Breaking Records On and Off the Farm
When she's not advising farmers on breeding strategies, Elain maintains strong connections to her agricultural roots. In November 2023, her family farm achieved a remarkable feat at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair, setting a world record by selling their supreme champion carcase lamb for £3,400.
But that's not her only claim to fame. In 2022, Elain represented Wales as part of the Youth Choir at the Qatar World Cup, where she witnessed Gareth Bale's final goal before retirement. She was even crowned "Cogent Bake Off Champion 2023", proving her talents extend well beyond the farmyard!
Supporting the Farming Community
In 2024, Elain took on an additional role as mental health ambassador at Cogent, a cause close to her heart. "The impact has been phenomenal," she says. One of the highlights of her time at Cogent so far was the sales team trip to America where she got to visit our parent company STgenetics and come home invigorated and inspired full of knowledge and ideas to help support her local farming community.
Her dedication to education extends to the next generation of farmers. Recently, she delivered a presentation at Glynllifon Agriculture College, receiving an enthusiastic response from students eager to learn about modern breeding techniques and technology.
Looking to the Future
As Cogent's presence in North Wales continues to grow, Elain remains committed to helping farmers achieve their breeding goals. Her advice to anyone considering a career in the industry? "The more you put in, the more you get out. Never be afraid to go down those farm drives—you never know where they might lead!"
Elain’s combination of practical experience, technical knowledge and genuine passion for helping others succeed makes her the perfect example of why Cogent is at the forefront of the industry.