At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy development and shape agricultural insights for the future.
- Company: Join AHDB, a key player in British agriculture and food sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days of leave, hybrid working, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working culture with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on UK agriculture while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy analysis and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
We are currently recruiting for a Head of Policy to join as a senior leader in our Economics and Analysis directorate. This role is an exciting opportunity to lead and shape AHDB's policy thinking and influence across the agriculture, food, land and environmental sectors. In this role, you will play a key part in developing AHDB's policy position on the issues that matter most to levy payers.
Working closely with the Chief Economist and senior stakeholders across industry, government and trade bodies, you will lead a team of policy professionals to deliver evidence-based analysis, shape policy options and ensure AHDB's insights influence future decision making. We are looking for a strategic leader with significant policy expertise and a passion for British agriculture. You will be comfortable operating at senior levels across government and industry, building influential relationships, shaping policy debates and leading a team that delivers evidence-based insights and practical solutions for levy payers. Regular travel across the UK is required, 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 AHDB's policy development activity, shaping positions on key agricultural, food, land and environmental issues.
- Build and maintain influential relationships with government departments, trade associations and industry leaders to support evidence-based policy outcomes.
- Collaborate across AHDB's Centre of Excellence functions and wider business to ensure policy, economic analysis and market intelligence outputs are aligned.
- Provide strategic insight into industry challenges, opportunities and long-term trends affecting levy payers.
- Lead and develop the Policy team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Oversee the delivery of high-quality policy and economic analysis projects, ensuring impact, quality and value.
- Act as a senior ambassador for AHDB, representing the organisation at industry events, conferences and stakeholder forums.
- Deputise for the Chief Economist where required and contribute to the leadership of the Economics and Analysis directorate.
Essential Criteria
- Significant experience delivering policy, economic or strategic analysis within agriculture, food, environmental or related sectors, along with degree-level qualification in economics, agriculture, politics or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
- Demonstrable experience leading and developing high-performing teams while delivering strategic objectives.
- Strong knowledge of UK agricultural and food supply chains, policy frameworks and market dynamics.
- Proven ability to build credibility and influence with senior stakeholders across government, industry and trade bodies.
- Excellent communication, influencing and analytical skills, with the ability to translate complex issues into clear, impactful recommendations.
The Benefits
- 35 hours per week, Monday-Friday, to include hybrid working.
- 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.
Head of Policy - Agriculture 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
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Policy - Agriculture in Coventry
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Policy - Agriculture in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
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Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what AHDB - Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at AHDB - Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with AHDB - Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at AHDB - Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with AHDB - Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.
