Poultec Apprentice, Gabor Csomai Wins The 2023 Poulters Award

Each year the Poulters Awards takes place in Armourers' Hall, London the award is presented to an individual who has made a substantial contribution, at an early age to poultry production. On Wednesday 20^th September 2023, Poultec Apprentice Gabor was awarded the Poulters’ award and received a certificate, trophy and £1000. ‘I am grateful to those who have mentored and supported me towards this success’ says Gabor.

The Worshipful Company of Poulters is one of the Livery Companies of the City of London. In 1368, the Company received the power to regulate the sale of poultry, swans, pigeons, rabbits and small game. The Company, which was incorporated under a Royal Charter of Charles II on 13^th June 1665, is no longer an association of trades- men that retains its ancient powers, but now operates as a charitable institution as do most of the other Livery Companies.

Gabor was brought up in on a Hungarian smallholding and by age 12 he knew he wanted a career in farming. He began his agricultural studies at secondary school, completed part time work on a poultry rearing farm alongside studying towards his A levels.

In 2008 Gabor moved to England and took on various ground keeping roles across the country before applying for a Stockman position at Holcombe Manor Farm, Devon in 2014 in partnership with Poultec Training Ltd. This is where his poultry career really got started, with guidance from his manager and mentors he developed a strong tie with the poultry industry and became intrigued by the complexity and science surrounding broiler breeders.

Natural aptitude, commitment, professionalism and the want to excel at everything made Gabor really shine through making him the obvious candidate for the vacancy of Assistant Manager. Since being appointed, the farm achieved the 2017 Ross Flock Award, under took two building extensions and significant farm improvement projects such as installing LED lighting and upgraded feeders all of which Gabor helped oversee.

In 2020 Gabor gained another promotion and enrolled onto another Apprenticeship with Poultec Training Ltd whilst becoming the Farm Manager and at this time the business had made the decision to purchase a new site and undergo a major expansion. Since this the farm’s performance has continued to elevate. Not only does Gabor work incredibly hard at ensuring they have healthy, well cared for birds but he also forges strong relationships and respect with his staff, colleagues, external contractors, suppliers and customers to build a fantastic, loyal team.

With the support of this strong team and his family at home he is constantly sought to develop himself and knowledge of the industry by undertaking various training programmes with Poultec Training Ltd such as a Level 3 Work Based Level 3 Agriculture, ILM Level 3 Diploma for Managers and HNC in Poultry Production.

‘We know that Gabor was honored and humbled to be nominated for this award, but we know he deserves this recognition for his contribution to the poultry sector.’ said Tom Martin - Holcombe Manor Farm Operations Director.

Gabor’s current and previous Poultec tutors said ‘Gabor is a great example to others within the Poultry industry. If you are committed, keen to learn, a natural leader, have ambition and drive you can rise through the ranks and achieve a very successful career.’