As part of our DRS 50 celebrations, we are highlighting panel members whose expertise supports fair, proportionate and effective dispute resolution across the profession. In this spotlight, we speak with Ruth Farrell, Senior Rural Business Consultant and Arbitrator at DJM Consulting, who reflects on her work across rural business advisory and dispute resolution, and the role DRS plays in supporting confidence and consistency in resolving disputes.
Can you tell us a bit about your role and what you do day‑to‑day?
I’m a Senior Rural Business Consultant and Arbitrator at DJM Consulting, a firm of rural business consultants based in Shropshire. We provide advice to a wide portfolio of clients, including farmers, landowners and business managers across the Midlands. I’m also a member of the Association of Rural Dispute Resolvers (ARDR).In practice, my days involve helping people navigate strategic decisions around rural businesses. That might include landlord and tenant matters, valuation or compensation questions, planning permission challenges, or diversification opportunities such as renewables, ice‑cream production or even buying a farm overseas. Alongside this, I’m involved in dispute resolution — both helping parties to avoid issues escalating and acting as an Arbitrator or Independent Expert when a formal resolution is required.Most days are a mix of conversation, problem‑solving and working towards practical outcomes. A lot can be achieved simply by talking things through.
Ruth Farrell, Senior Rural Business Consultant and Arbitrator, DJM Consulting
Can you tell us a bit about your role and what you do day‑to‑day?
I’m a Senior Rural Business Consultant and Arbitrator at DJM Consulting, a firm of rural business consultants based in Shropshire. We provide advice to a wide portfolio of clients, including farmers, landowners and business managers across the Midlands. I’m also a member of the Association of Rural Dispute Resolvers (ARDR).
In practice, my days involve helping people navigate strategic decisions around rural businesses. That might include landlord and tenant matters, valuation or compensation questions, planning permission challenges, or diversification opportunities such as renewables, ice‑cream production or even buying a farm overseas. Alongside this, I’m involved in dispute resolution — both helping parties to avoid issues escalating and acting as an Arbitrator or Independent Expert when a formal resolution is required.
Most days are a mix of conversation, problem‑solving and working towards practical outcomes. A lot can be achieved simply by talking things through.
What first drew you to dispute resolution or your area of expertise?
My interest grew from seeing how disruptive and costly disputes can be, and how much difference the right process and approach can make. Disputes are often stressful — financially and emotionally — and uncertain for those involved.
I wanted to be able to help by bringing clarity and structure for parties and their professional advisers. Becoming an Arbitrator also enabled me to support people in understanding the process properly and approaching it with confidence, helping to preserve ongoing business relationships wherever possible.
How has your role or the industry changed over the years?
Earlier in my career, work tended to be more linear — clear instructions, a defined question and a relatively direct path to an outcome. Today, clients come with increasingly complex strategic issues and want support weighing options, timing and wider implications across their entire business.
That has shifted my role towards more scenario planning, collaboration with other advisers and a stronger emphasis on practical, workable solutions. Leaving the EU and subsequent changes to farming, environmental policy and domestic taxation have been key drivers of this evolution.
What do you enjoy most about working with DRS?
I value the professionalism and efficiency of the DRS team and appreciate being able to speak directly with them when needed. The process is clear and well organised, which makes it straightforward to work within.
From initial enquiry through to appointment, everything is handled professionally, allowing me to focus on the substance of the dispute.
Can you share a memorable case, course or experience that stands out?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping parties resolve disputes that initially seem entrenched. Cases where parties begin far apart but, through a structured and fair process, reach clarity and resolution are especially memorable. It’s satisfying to know that the process has provided certainty and allowed both sides to move forward constructively.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?
Be open to opportunities and focus on building a broad range of experience. Technical knowledge is important, but so is judgement, understanding different perspectives and seeing the bigger picture. Exposure to different types of work, including dispute resolution, is invaluable.
Trust yourself to step beyond your comfort zone. I didn’t set out expecting to become an Arbitrator, but the experience I gained over time, encouragement from colleagues and peers, and the support of my team at DJM Consulting made it a natural progression. I’m proud to be the third woman elected to the RICS President’s Panel of Rural Arbitrators in England and Wales.
What keeps you motivated and inspired professionally?
The people I work with and for, and the variety of the work. Every situation is different and there is always something new to learn. Helping people resolve issues and move forward gives a real sense of purpose — particularly when the outcome provides clarity and stability for their business.
Being nominated for — and then winning — Agricultural Advisor of the Year at the National Women in Agriculture Awards 2024 has also been a great source of motivation.
How does DRS support you in delivering value to clients and the profession?
DRS provides a trusted, well‑structured framework that supports fair and effective dispute resolution. The consistency of the process gives confidence to everyone involved.
To help colleagues get to know you beyond your professional work, is there a personal interest you’d like to share?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time in the countryside with my small flock of pedigree Ryeland sheep and climbing tall hills to explore interesting places — both help maintain perspective. I value time with family and friends and am happiest outdoors, whatever the weather. That said, I don’t enjoy being cold, so you’ll often find me gardening in my salopettes, even when there’s no snow in sight.
