At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead projects to improve farming services and compliance through collaboration and innovation.
- Company: Join the Animal and Plant Health Agency, a diverse and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, professional development, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working options available to suit your lifestyle.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the farming community while driving positive change.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of regulatory systems and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 44052 - 44052 £ per year.
Are you passionate about improving services, compliance and outcomes for the farming community? Are you motivated by leading collaborative change across APHA, Defra and the wider regulatory network? If so, we would love to hear from you!
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is a brilliant place to work where our people feel valued, have a voice and can be their authentic selves. We value difference and diversity, because it helps us be more innovative and make better decisions. We are dedicated to being an inclusive employer, offering equitable opportunities for all individuals. Our goal is to build a diverse workforce, and we hope to attract applications from all backgrounds and underrepresented groups.
The APHA Farming and Countryside Development, Delivery and Compliance Manager is responsible for identifying and delivering opportunities to improve the regulatory system by working collaboratively with policy teams, other regulators, the farming community and Defra partners. The role focuses on improving engagement, communication and compliance through a joint service improvement approach, while ensuring APHA contributes proactively to regulatory reform and the Delivering Sustainable Future (DSF) transformation programme.
The postholder will lead the development and implementation of Defra Farming Directorate's Farming, Innovation and Regulatory Services workstream, overseeing projects that explore alternative approaches to regulation, compliance and enforcement. The role also involves engaging with frontline inspectors and stakeholders to improve customer experience and operational effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities To Include:
- Leading projects across Defra agencies to improve engagement with farmers and establish best practice in written and verbal communications
- Working closely with the APHA Delivering Sustainable Future programme to gather and utilise customer insight to inform service improvements
- Supporting joint learning and development initiatives across Defra regulators, identifying opportunities for shared training, particularly in generic and interpersonal skills
- Managing and promoting the use of the Eyes and Ears app, identifying opportunities to improve its effectiveness and uptake
- Leading APHA's participation in Regional Field Officer Forum pilots, working with Defra regulators to expand the initiative and deliver positive outcomes
- Contributing to the development and delivery of the Defra Joint Service Improvement Plan, including implementation of data-sharing and geospatial improvement initiatives
- Evaluating current regulatory practices and identify opportunities to strengthen engagement with the farming community and improve compliance outcomes
- Line managing the Farming and Countryside Delivery Manager (HEO)
- Providing management oversight of Regulatory Affairs, Compliance and Enforcement (RACE) team compliance functions and associated teams where required
Person specification:
- Knowledge of APHA's Animal Health and Welfare operational delivery and regulatory activities
- Understanding of the wider Defra regulatory landscape and the role of Defra group regulators
- Knowledge of Data Protection legislation and experience of working within data protection and information-sharing requirements
- Awareness of geospatial systems and their application within operational and regulatory delivery
- Ability to analyse regulatory systems, identify gaps, risks and opportunities for improvement, and develop practical solutions to enhance compliance, service delivery and customer outcomes
- Strong communication and influencing skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders
- Full UK driving licence required to undertake travel in support of field-based activities, operational visits, and attendance at regional and national forums
Alongside your salary of £44,052, Animal and Plant Health Agency contributes £12,761 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. A minimum of 25 days of paid annual leave, increasing by 1 day per year up to a maximum of 30. An extensive range of learning & professional development opportunities tailored to your role. Access to a range of retail, travel and lifestyle employee discounts from retailers such as High street coffee shops, Cinema’s, supermarkets, High street retailers and many, many more. Staff bonuses and recognition including appreciate vouchers of up to £200 and larger in year awards of up to £1000, A salary sacrifice benefit options and an employee discount scheme such as bike to work, Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) scheme, every £8 they pay in, the government adds £2, up to a maximum of £2,000 a year for each child. Discounted gym membership with Fitness First or Pure Gym. Special Leave with pay, per year, for volunteering. Making it work for you - With so many flexible working options, most people can find a work schedule to suit their circumstances.
Closing date is 23:55 on Monday 28th September 2026.
Farming and Countryside Development, Delivery and Compliance Manager in Carlisle employer: Animal and Plant Health Agency
The Animal and Plant Health Agency is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values governance and transparency. With flexible working options and a generous civil service pension, employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills in a meaningful role that contributes to public health and safety. Working in the UK, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to making a positive impact on animal and plant health.
Contact Details:
Animal and Plant Health Agency Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Farming and Countryside Development, Delivery and Compliance Manager in Carlisle
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We think you need these skills to ace Farming and Countryside Development, Delivery and Compliance Manager in Carlisle
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 Animal and Plant Health Agency does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Animal and Plant Health Agency
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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 Animal and Plant Health Agency.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
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✨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 Animal and Plant Health Agency.
