At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead projects to enhance farming services and compliance through collaboration and innovation.
- Company: Join the Animal and Plant Health Agency, a diverse and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working options and extensive professional development opportunities available.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the farming community while developing your career.
- 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, 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 Exeter 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 Exeter
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Animal and Plant Health Agency, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Animal and Plant Health Agency and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Farming and Countryside Development, Delivery and Compliance Manager in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Animal and Plant Health Agency and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Animal and Plant Health Agency
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Animal and Plant Health Agency, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Animal and Plant Health Agency.
