Russell Batten

Russell Batten is an experienced professional in agri-tech policy and business development. Currently serving as the Head of Domestic and International Agri-Tech Policy at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs since November 2023, Batten previously held the position of Team Leader for Agri Innovation and Agri Tech Sector Policy within the same department from February 2018 to November 2023. Prior to this, Batten was the Commercial and Business Development Manager at Curo from October 2015 to February 2018 and led commissioning and contracts at Wiltshire Council from August 2011 to September 2015. Earlier roles included Programme Manager at the Government Office for the South West and Head of Communications at the Department for Communities and Local Government, alongside other positions in housing and policy advice. Batten holds a BA (Hons) in Politics and German from the University of London and a BA (Hons) in Political Science and Government from Park School in Barnstaple, Devon.