Alice Lennox steps into her dream job with the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.
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Alice Lennox has recently embarked on a significant career journey as the Scottish coordinator for the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST). With a rich background in agriculture and a lifelong passion for rare livestock, Alice’s new position marks a vital step in promoting and conserving native breeds across Scotland.
Growing up on Doonies Rare Breeds Farm in Aberdeen, Alice was immersed in the world of rare breeds from an early age. Her parents, Graham and Debbie Lennox, operated the farm, which became a cherished destination for visitors and a working conservation site accredited by RBST.
From farm manager to conservation champion
After 30 years of operation, Doonies was forced to close in August 2023 due to the landowner’s decision to transform the site into part of a multi-million-pound energy transition zone. This closure marked the end of an era for the Lennox family, who had dedicated decades to preserving rare breeds. Alice, now 31, had already made her mark at Doonies as a part-time farm manager and tour guide, while also earning degrees from Aberdeen University and Scotland’s Rural College. Her experience as an agricultural officer for the Scottish Government further solidified her expertise in the field.
A dream job realized
Having volunteered with RBST since 2013, Alice was well-acquainted with the organization’s mission to conserve and promote native livestock and equine breeds. Her recent appointment as Scottish coordinator is a culmination of her dedication to the cause. “I saw it advertised and decided straight away to go for it,” she shared, expressing her excitement about transitioning to a full-time role with RBST. Her efforts were recognized when she was awarded the title of Rare Breeds Champion of the Year at the 2023 RBST Scotland Food and Farming Sustainability Awards, highlighting her commitment to the preservation of rare breeds.
Advocating for sustainable farming
In her new role, Alice will work tirelessly to promote the importance of rare breeds in sustainable farming practices. She emphasizes that these breeds not only possess great heritage value but also play a crucial role in environmental conservation. “The UK’s rare livestock and equine breeds are paramount to sustainable farming,” she stated, noting their adaptability to local environments and their contributions to biodiversity and soil health. Alice’s mission is to bring these breeds back to the forefront of Scottish agriculture, ensuring they are recognized for their unique qualities and commercial potential.
Collaborating for a sustainable future
As Scottish coordinator, Alice will engage with farmers, smallholders, and policymakers to advocate for the needs of rare breed keepers. Her responsibilities include managing events, supporting funding applications, and advising on conservation projects. With the RBST Scotland Conference scheduled for July 31, 2025, Alice is eager to connect with those already involved with rare breeds or those interested in starting their own herds or flocks. “I’ll support them in maximizing the exciting opportunities to market their high-quality meat, wool, and conservation grazing services,” she explained.
Building a network of support
RBST’s chief executive, Christopher Price, expressed enthusiasm about Alice joining the team, highlighting her extensive experience and commitment to the cause. “This is a key year for the rare breeds survival effort in Scotland and across the UK,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of Alice’s role in navigating new agricultural policies and addressing the challenges posed by the cost-of-living crisis. Through RBST’s network of over 4,200 members, Alice aims to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing to support the conservation of native breeds, which contribute significantly to rural life and local economies.
