Ruth Bailey Named to the 2026 Women in Trade Associations Powerlist
Ruth Bailey, Chief Executive Officer and Director General of the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA), has been recognised as one of the UK’s leading trade association figures, earning a place on the 2026 Women in Trade Associations (WiTA) Powerlist. Announced on 6 March 2026, the Powerlist forms part of the national celebrations for International Women’s Day and is delivered by the Trade Association Forum (TAF) in partnership with the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).
The annual Powerlist highlights women who are shaping the future of trade associations across the UK, recognising their leadership, industry impact, and commitment to their sectors. Bailey expressed both pride and gratitude at being included, describing the recognition as “a huge honour” and thanking those who nominated her for the 2026 list.
Bailey emphasised the importance of the agricultural engineering and wider landbased sectors, noting the essential work carried out by organisations and professionals across the industry. She highlighted her pride in representing the sector and leading the AEA team, underscoring the association’s role in supporting innovation and growth.
She also used the occasion to spotlight the wider contribution of women within UK trade associations. Bailey noted that the Powerlist reflects the dedication of women who work tirelessly—both publicly and behind the scenes—to represent their members and champion their industries. She congratulated all those included in this year’s list and acknowledged the collective commitment shared across the trade association community.
Bailey’s inclusion on the 2026 WiTA Powerlist reinforces the strong leadership emerging within agricultural engineering and highlights the growing recognition of women driving progress across the UK’s trade bodies.
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