Head of Trials and Validation

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.

To apply:

For more information and an informal confidential discussion please call Rupert Kettle on: Office or e-mail your CV and covering letter to De Lacy Executive Recruitment will upload your CV to our database and retain some data about you in order to process your application. More information about our processing activities can be found at Please be assured that all contact is treated in complete confidence and your details will not be passed to a third party without your prior permission.