At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead rural grant schemes and provide practical farm management advice to clients.
- Company: Join Symonds & Sampson, a dynamic firm with over 150 experts in the South-West of England.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 30+ days holiday, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing team, build client relationships, and make a real impact in agriculture.
- Qualifications: Degree in agriculture or related field; 3+ years experience preferred.
- Other info: Full-time role based in Dorchester; apply by March 7, 2025.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 42000 £ per year.
Symonds & Sampson LLP – Dorset – Agricultural Consultant
Added 10 Feb 2025
Symonds & Sampson LLP is a multi-disciplinary professional services and property firm covering the South-West of England with over 150 forward-thinking experts across 17 regional offices.
Our Chartered Surveyors, Professional Staff and Agents provide a full range of services for our predominantly rural client base. Due to a period of sustained growth, an outstanding opportunity has arisen to become a key member of the team at Symonds & Sampson.
We are recruiting an experienced individual to join our Professional Services team, based in Dorchester and servicing the surrounding areas. We are looking for an enthusiastic, determined, and driven individual to take the lead on rural grant schemes and practical farm management, as well as working with clients to prepare business plans and rent tenders.
The successful candidate will be part of a developing and growing team, as well as building strong relationships with existing clients, developing new work and providing practical advice on a one-to-one basis.
The role and responsibilities:
- Undertake Sustainable Farming Incentives and other Grant Aid applications and oversee the management of these agreements.
- Provide practical Farm Management advice to our farm and estate-owning clients.
- Prepare reports and budgets to support tenders for FBTs, CFAs and SFAs.
- Provide technical advice and complete records for NVZ’s, Soil and Nutrient Management plans.
- Support farm businesses with reviewing accounts and preparing business plans.
- Build strong relationships with all customers and provide independent and practical advice on a one-to-one basis.
- Work collaboratively with all other professionals in all departments.
The skills we are looking for in you:
- Qualified through a relevant university course, preferably agriculture-related – FACTS or BASIS desirable but not essential.
- A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience and a sound working knowledge of both the arable and livestock sectors.
- A full working knowledge of DEFRA’s grants and subsidies and an awareness of private sector funding (Wessex Water).
- A working knowledge of nutrient issues and reporting (NVZ records, NLT & ACT returns, Nutrient Mitigation, etc) is desirable but not essential.
- IT Proficient.
- Self-motivated and ambitious.
- Commercially astute and capable of generating new business.
- Capable of working with a high degree of autonomy.
- Car owner with full UK driving licence.
- Good interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to manage time effectively, prioritising tasks to meet deadlines.
- Organised and methodical, with a high level of attention to detail.
- Ability to accept responsibility and work on their initiative whilst adhering to company policies and procedures.
In return:
- A competitive salary dependent on experience.
- Training and subscriptions of professional bodies and any additional qualifications required.
- The opportunity to take on an established client base and progress career.
- Holiday starting at 30 days per year, including bank holidays and increasing with long service.
- Work-based pension scheme.
- Company events.
Terms:
Starting Date: As soon as possible but negotiable for the right candidate.
Hours: Full Time.
Salary: A competitive salary dependent on experience.
Location: In person, Burraton House Office, Poundbury, Dorset.
Closing Date: 7 March 2025. The closing date may be brought forward when we receive a high volume of applications. To avoid disappointment, we suggest submitting your application promptly.
For further information, please get in touch with George Whittaker by email ( ) or by phone on 01305 236237.
Applications: To apply for the role, please send your CV with covering letter to George Whittaker AssocRICS FAAV MBIAC CEnv, Symonds & Sampson LLP, Burraton House, 5 Burraton Square, Poundbury, Dorset DT1 3GR or by email (as above).
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Symonds & Sampson LLP - Dorset - Agricultural Consultant employer: CAAV - Central Association of Agricultural Valuers
Contact Detail:
CAAV - Central Association of Agricultural Valuers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Symonds & Sampson LLP - Dorset - Agricultural Consultant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with DEFRA’s grants and subsidies, as well as private sector funding options like Wessex Water. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the financial landscape of the agricultural sector.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the agricultural field, especially those who have experience with rural grant schemes and farm management. Building relationships can provide you with valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in the agricultural sector, particularly regarding sustainable farming practices. Being knowledgeable about these topics will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed farm operations or provided practical advice to clients. Highlighting your achievements will help you stand out as a candidate who can deliver results.
We think you need these skills to ace Symonds & Sampson LLP - Dorset - Agricultural Consultant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Agricultural Consultant position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience.
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses how your background aligns with the needs of Symonds & Sampson LLP. Mention your experience with rural grant schemes, farm management, and any relevant qualifications that make you a strong candidate.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasize your experience in agriculture, particularly in areas like DEFRA’s grants and subsidies, and your knowledge of both arable and livestock sectors. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise and achievements.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at CAAV - Central Association of Agricultural Valuers
✨Show Your Passion for Agriculture
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the agricultural sector during the interview. Share specific experiences that highlight your commitment to sustainable farming and how you can contribute to the firm's goals.
✨Demonstrate Technical Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of DEFRA’s grants and subsidies, as well as nutrient management issues. Providing examples of past projects or experiences where you've applied this knowledge will impress the interviewers.
✨Highlight Relationship-Building Skills
Since building strong relationships with clients is crucial, share examples of how you've successfully developed client relationships in previous roles. Emphasize your interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Anticipate questions related to practical farm management and grant applications. Think through potential scenarios you might face in the role and how you would approach them, showcasing your problem-solving abilities.