At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead trials and validation to shape agri-tech innovations and influence commercial decisions.
- Company: A government-funded public-private entity driving agricultural innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and the chance to impact the future of food production.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant career growth in a dynamic, impactful environment.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of agri-tech, shaping how technologies are tested and adopted.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in trials or R&D, strong leadership, and commercial awareness.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
There comes a point in a senior technical career where the challenge is no longer about running trials; it’s about shaping how trials are done, why they matter, and how they genuinely influence commercial decisions at scale. This role exists for that reason. A government funded public private entity is looking for an experienced and commercially focused Head of Trials & Validation to take ownership of its UK-wide trials, validation and data operations. The purpose is simple but critical: generate trusted, real world evidence that helps new technologies move from the research and development phase to commercial adoption. This is a key leadership role at the helm of the Test, Trial & Demonstration management team. This is not a role focused on academic proof or small-scale experimentation. The emphasis is on commercially representative trials, delivered in real operating environments, producing data that farmers, investors, regulators and supply chains can trust.
Key Aims
- Set national standards for how trials and validation are designed and delivered
- Influence how emerging technologies are proven, de risked and scaled
- Lead and develop teams whose work directly affects commercial outcomes
- Operate at the interface between innovation, agriculture and industry
The role will suit someone with a strong background in agricultural trials, applied R&D or validation environments. You will have broad knowledge across all sectors of agriculture, excellent team leadership abilities and be confident in public facing communications. Those passionate about the future of agri‑tech will have the chance to ensure the next generation of Ag‑Tech products will shape the future of food production are encouraged to apply.
Role Responsibilities
- Be the lead on all trials, validation and data delivery activity
- Develop and strengthen UK-wide testbed capability, operational frameworks and data systems
- Ensure trials deliver robust, commercially representative performance data
- Set standards for data quality, evidence generation and reporting
- Manage two direct reports responsible for different sectors
- Build, mentor and lead a high performing, geographically distributed team
- Generate trusted data and evidence to support agri‑tech adoption and business growth
- Manage budgets, forecasting, resources and departmental capability
- Lead and develop multidisciplinary teams across multiple locations
- Work collaboratively with internal teams to achieve business KPIs and programme outcomes
- Build strong relationships with farmers, growers, innovators and supply chain partners
- Represent the organisation with external stakeholders, boards and industry groups
- Support continuous improvement across the wider test, trial and demonstration function
About you
This role will suit someone who understands that credibility in trials comes from discipline, relevance and consistency, not volume alone.
- 5+ years’ leadership experience in trials, validation or applied R&D environments
- Strong understanding of agricultural trials and evidence generation
- Track record of building experienced and multidisciplinary teams
- Commercial awareness with the ability to align trials activity to market and customer needs
- Advanced stakeholder management skills and commercial awareness
- Experience embedding operational processes, standards and frameworks
- Strong knowledge of agricultural, animal health, crop health and environmental regulatory frameworks
- Excellent communication and organisational ability
- Able to prioritise workloads and make effective decisions at pace
- The confidence to challenge, influence and lead at senior level
- Full UK driving licence, willingness to travel and stay away regularly
Project management experience and a degree in agriculture or a related discipline are advantageous, but not essential if matched by equivalent commercial experience in the agri‑tech sector.
The opportunity
This is an opportunity to be at the heart of a leading public organisation at the forefront of UK agricultural innovation. You will play a central role in shaping how emerging agri‑tech is tested, validated and commercialised across the sector, helping innovative businesses generate the evidence needed to scale successfully.
Head of Trials and Validation in Edinburgh employer: De Lacy Executive
Join a pioneering public-private entity dedicated to transforming the agricultural landscape through innovative agri-tech solutions. As the Head of Trials and Validation, you will lead a dynamic team in generating trusted, real-world evidence that drives commercial adoption of new technologies. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, collaboration, and impactful work, this role offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of food production while enjoying a supportive work culture that values your expertise and vision.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Trials and Validation in Edinburgh
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like De Lacy Executive often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Trials and Validation in Edinburgh
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.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
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 De Lacy Executive does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at De Lacy Executive
✨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 De Lacy Executive 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 De Lacy Executive.
✨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 De Lacy Executive.
