At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy lobbying and strategy for British farmers in the dairy sector.
- Company: Join a respected UK Livestock Trade Association focused on agricultural advocacy.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, professional development support, and a competitive salary.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on agricultural policy while representing farmers' interests at a national level.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in policy or advocacy, ideally within agriculture; relevant degree required.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor junior team members and engage with diverse stakeholders.
Are you an Agricultural policy professional looking for an exciting opportunity to champion the needs of British Farmers? A UK Livestock Trade Association is seeking an experienced policy advisor to head up policy lobbying and strategy to ensure the voices of British farmers are heard where it matters most. This newly created role offers the opportunity to influence agricultural policy, represent farmers' interests at national level, and help drive the strategic direction of a respected organisation involved in the dairy sector, during a period of high investment, growth and sector-wide change.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement policy strategies that reflect the needs of the UK dairy sector.
- Engage with government departments, industry bodies, and regulators on behalf of members.
- Lead the creation of concise, well-informed policy responses and position papers.
- Represent the organisation at meetings, events, and within working groups.
- Establish and lead a member policy forum to gather grassroots input.
- Monitor legislative developments and brief stakeholders accordingly.
- Work collaboratively across teams to communicate policy work clearly and effectively.
- Provide updates and commentary through digital channels and member newsletters.
- Mentor junior team members in Policy Advising where applicable.
Experience & Skills:
- Minimum 3 years' experience in policy, advocacy, or public affairs, ideally within agriculture.
- Proven ability to engage with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and diverse stakeholders.
- Strong knowledge of agricultural regulatory frameworks.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Confident drafting clear, concise policy documents under tight deadlines.
- Highly organised with a proactive, 'can do' approach and ability to manage shifting priorities.
- Collaborative team player with a reputation for professionalism.
- Comfortable responding promptly to urgent requests from media, Council, or partners.
- Willingness to travel within the UK, including occasional overnight stays.
- Experience representing trade associations or advising businesses is desirable.
- Charity, non-profit, or membership organisation experience is a plus.
- Established network in rural and agricultural policy circles is beneficial.
- Experience managing others is an advantage.
Requirements:
- A relevant degree in Public Policy, Agriculture, Politics, or a related field.
- Minimum 3 years' experience in policy, advocacy, or public affairs.
- Strong working knowledge of the UK agricultural or environmental policy landscape.
- Experience working with government agencies and regulators.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organisational ability, with experience handling changing priorities and tight deadlines.
- A full UK driving licence.
- Experience in a charity, membership organisation, or trade association (desirable).
- Previous line management experience (desirable).
- Experience in the dairy sector is not essential but would be advantageous.
Remuneration:
- Circa £40,000+, depending on experience
- Additional benefits package
- Flexible/agile working options
- Support for ongoing professional development
- Permanent, full-time role based in Stratford-upon-Avon
Whether you come from a genetics background or bring broader experience in livestock or on-farm sales, if you're driven, commercially sharp, and committed to supporting the future of dairy farming, we want to hear from you.
Policy Lead - UK Livestock Trade Association employer: De Lacy Executive
Contact Detail:
De Lacy Executive Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Lead - UK Livestock Trade Association
✨Tip Number 1
Network actively within agricultural policy circles. Attend industry events, seminars, and conferences to meet key stakeholders and decision-makers. Building relationships with government officials and industry leaders can significantly enhance your visibility and credibility in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current agricultural policies and legislative changes. Subscribe to relevant newsletters, follow influential figures on social media, and engage in discussions on platforms like LinkedIn. This knowledge will not only prepare you for interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past policy work. Be ready to articulate how you've successfully engaged with government agencies or influenced policy decisions. Highlighting your achievements will showcase your expertise and suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the UK Livestock Trade Association's mission and recent initiatives. Understanding their goals and challenges will allow you to tailor your conversations and demonstrate how your skills align with their needs during interviews or networking opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Lead - UK Livestock Trade Association
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in agricultural policy, advocacy, or public affairs. Emphasise your ability to engage with government agencies and your knowledge of the UK agricultural landscape.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for supporting British farmers and outline how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Policy Lead role. Be specific about your experience in developing policy strategies and engaging with stakeholders.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are crucial for this role, ensure that your application materials are clear, concise, and free of errors. Consider including examples of policy documents or position papers you have drafted.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience in managing others or working within a trade association, make sure to highlight this in your application. Mention any established networks you have in rural and agricultural policy circles, as this will strengthen your candidacy.
How to prepare for a job interview at De Lacy Executive
✨Know Your Policy Landscape
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the current agricultural policy landscape in the UK. Familiarise yourself with recent developments, key stakeholders, and how they impact British farmers. This knowledge will help you engage confidently during discussions.
✨Prepare Your Success Stories
Think of specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your ability to develop and implement effective policy strategies. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully engaged with government agencies or represented interests at meetings.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Policy Lead, clear communication is crucial. Prepare to articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex policy issues. Practising your responses can help you convey your ideas effectively under pressure.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Spirit
Highlight your experience working collaboratively across teams and with diverse stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve led initiatives or forums that gathered input from members, showcasing your ability to foster teamwork and inclusivity.