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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to drive scientific excellence and public impact.
- Company: Join AFBI, a leading science-led organisation in Northern Ireland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension contribution, and impactful work.
- Why this job: Shape the future of agri-food and biosciences while making a real difference.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for science and governance.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant career growth and influence on scientific agendas.
The predicted salary is between 113060 - 123946 £ per year.
Salary scale: £113,060 - £123,946 per annum (analogous to Senior Civil Service Grade 3). Plus an employer pension contribution of 34.25%.
Location: AFBI Headquarters, Newforge Lane, Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for science and a proven track record of guiding multi-disciplinary organisations? The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) is seeking a dynamic Chief Executive to lead the Institute into its next era of scientific excellence and public impact. This is a unique opportunity to shape the direction of a leading science-led organisation and make a tangible difference across Northern Ireland’s agri-food, biosciences, and environmental sectors.
The Board seeks to recruit a transformative leader who will ensure the Institute fulfils its potential as a dynamic, agile science organisation, capable of attracting and retaining ambitious staff who are committed to making a difference. As Chief Executive, you will lead AFBI’s Executive Management Team and staff, ensuring the Institute continues to thrive as a centre of excellence. You will be accountable to the Board for all aspects of the Institute’s work, maintaining the highest standards of corporate governance while driving strategic development and scientific progress across its remit.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead a world‑class Institute that delivers meaningful scientific impact across Northern Ireland. AFBI provides cutting‑edge research and services in agri‑food, biosciences, and environmental science, supporting policy, industry, and public good. As Chief Executive, you will shape the future of the Institute, influence national and international scientific agendas, and ensure that AFBI continues to deliver outstanding outcomes for society.
If you are an accomplished leader with a commitment to scientific excellence, high standards of governance, and a passion for public service, this is your opportunity to apply today to guide AFBI into its next era of achievement and impact.
This competition is being managed by Hays Executive Search. If you have any queries with regard to this recruitment process or require any documentation in an alternative format, please contact Hays via: E: elaine.mccullagh@hays.com or T: 028 9044 6911.
Closing date for applications: 12 noon, Friday 30 January 2026.
AFBI is an equal opportunities employer and has been awarded the Diversity Mark Accreditation in recognition for our commitment towards Gender Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace. All appointments will be made strictly on the basis of merit.
Chief Executive employer: AFBI - Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute Northern Ireland
Contact Detail:
AFBI - Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute Northern Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the agri-food and biosciences sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or board members from AFBI. A personal introduction can make all the difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Research AFBI thoroughly. Understand their current projects, challenges, and future goals. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in leading the Institute into its next era.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common leadership scenarios. Think about how you would handle strategic development and governance issues at AFBI. We want you to showcase your vision and how you can drive scientific excellence!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining AFBI and making a real impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Vision: As a Chief Executive, we want to see your visionary leadership skills shine through. Make sure to articulate your vision for AFBI and how you plan to drive scientific excellence and public impact in your application.
Highlight Your Experience: We’re looking for someone with a proven track record in guiding multi-disciplinary organisations. Be sure to include specific examples of your past achievements and how they relate to the role at AFBI.
Emphasise Governance Standards: Since maintaining high standards of corporate governance is crucial, don’t forget to mention your experience in this area. We want to know how you’ve ensured accountability and transparency in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us smoothly, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can consider you for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at AFBI - Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute Northern Ireland
✨Know Your Vision
As a Chief Executive, you need to articulate a clear vision for the future of AFBI. Research the organisation's current projects and challenges, and think about how your leadership can drive scientific excellence and public impact. Be ready to discuss your strategic ideas during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that showcase your ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams. Highlight instances where you've successfully guided organisations through change or innovation, as this will resonate with the Board's desire for a transformative leader.
✨Understand Governance Standards
Familiarise yourself with corporate governance principles, especially in a scientific context. Be prepared to discuss how you would maintain high standards of governance at AFBI while driving strategic development. This shows you’re not just a visionary but also a responsible leader.
✨Engage with Current Issues
Stay updated on the latest trends and challenges in the agri-food and biosciences sectors. During the interview, reference relevant issues and how AFBI can address them. This demonstrates your commitment to making a tangible difference and your understanding of the Institute's role in society.
