We are currently recruiting for a Head of Economics to join as a senior leader in our Economics and Analysis directorate. This role is an exciting opportunity to lead and shape AHDB's economic thinking and influence across the agriculture, food, land and environmental sectors.
In this role, you will work closely with the Chief Economist to lead an experienced team of economists and deliver economic analysis that supports AHDB's strategic objectives. You will ensure our analysis is rigorous, timely and communicated effectively to internal and external stakeholders.
We are looking for a strategic leader with significant economics expertise and a strong understanding of agriculture and the wider agri-food sector. You will be able to turn complex analysis into clear insight, build influential relationships and lead a team whose work supports industry decisions and policy development.
Active stakeholder engagement will require travel across the UK and occasional international travel, along with a full UK driving licence. The role involves working on a hybrid basis from our Coventry headquarters and remotely.
About AHDB
We are the independent, impartial public body that unlocks success in British agriculture. Funded by a levy from over 100,000 British producers in the beef, lamb, pork, dairy and cereals sectors, we support and champion farmers, growers and processors, often where no one else can or will.
We share the expert, evidence-based research and reports that inform on-farm decision making. We promote British produce to the UK public through domestic marketing campaigns, and we identify and open new global export opportunities to help farm businesses grow.
We help levy payers learn more, sell more and export more to remain sustainable and profitable. Together, we deliver the insights, the influence and the impact that farmers need.
Responsibilities
- Lead the Economics team, setting priorities and delivering high-quality economic analysis that supports AHDB's strategic objectives and levy payer needs
- Maintain a proactive pipeline of industry-leading analysis that informs business decisions and supports policy development across AHDB sectors
- Oversee the delivery of policy analysis, market analysis and cost-of-production outputs, ensuring quality, relevance and impact
- Identify, plan and evaluate economic projects, strengthening how AHDB demonstrates the value generated by its analysis
- Work across AHDB to ensure business planning, projects and strategic decisions are supported by robust economic evidence
- Build strong relationships with government economists, industry stakeholders and external experts to strengthen collaboration
- Champion AHDB's economic analysis externally through industry events, media engagement, conferences and stakeholder forums
- Develop and mentor economists and analysts, contribute to the Economics and Analysis management team and deputise for the Chief Economist when required
Essential Criteria
- Degree-level qualification in economics or another numerate discipline, or equivalent relevant experience
- Significant experience delivering high-quality economic projects and analysis within agriculture, agri-food or a related sector
- Demonstrable experience leading, motivating and developing teams to deliver strategic objectives
- Strong strategic, analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to plan, prioritise and deliver to time, quality and budget requirements
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience translating complex economic analysis for a range of audiences
The Benefits…
- 35 hours per week, Monday-Friday
- 33 days of annual leave plus one privilege day (inclusive of bank holidays)
- Life assurance cover (4x salary)
- A market-leading defined contribution pension scheme with Legal & General
- Enhanced pay of 20 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave, subject to length of service
- A paid day each year to volunteer and make a difference in your community
- Comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme
- Excellent training and development opportunities and an agreed development plan
- Recognition awards throughout the year
- Reward Gateway membership - this gives you a huge number of online discounts and savings
At AHDB, we are committed to developing, maintaining and supporting a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion, including flexible working opportunities. This applies to both our workforce and the practices we follow.
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Head of Economics in Coventry employer: AHDB - Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board
At AHDB, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility, enabling you to balance your professional and personal life while contributing to impactful research in crop protection. With a strong emphasis on employee development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the agriculture sector from our Coventry HQ and beyond.
Contact Details:
AHDB - Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board Recruitment Team
