From Lloyd’s Broker to Desert Farming Pioneer | A Career You Won’t Expect

What does it take to leave a career in London insurance and build a working farm in the Israeli desert?In this episode of The MorePeople Podcast, Managing Director Richard Hanwell sits down with Adam Tyler, Head Grower at S&A Produce, to explore an extraordinary and unconventional journey into the world of horticulture and modern farming.Adam’s career began far from agriculture as a Lloyd’s insurance broker in London. But a life-changing opportunity led him to the Negev Desert in Israel, where at just 24 years old he helped build a farm from scratch. With no prior farming experience, he learned hands-on—developing expertise in irrigation systems, crop management, and desert agriculture under extreme conditions.This episode explores:Adam’s transition from finance and insurance into farmingWhat it’s really like to build a farm in the Israeli desertLessons from growing peppers, soft fruit, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberriesThe importance of mentorship, collaboration, and knowledge sharing in agricultureHow global experience is transforming UK horticulture and fresh produce productionThe role of innovation in modern farming, including precision irrigation and data-led growing systemsWhy initiatives like NewGen are vital for developing future talent in the industryNow based in Kent, Adam applies his international experience at S&A Produce, helping drive innovation in UK soft fruit production while championing the next generation of growers.This is a must-watch for anyone interested in horticulture careers, agricultural innovation, food production, or unconventional career paths.