At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations to transform farming, food, and nature across the South West.
- Company: FWAG SouthWest, an environmental charity with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, hybrid model, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Regular travel across the South West and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of farming and support a committed team in meaningful work.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and a collaborative approach; environmental experience not required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Join FWAG SouthWest and help deliver the transformation of farming, food and nature. We believe that tomorrow’s farming is in our nature and our work aims to turn that vision into practical outcomes with farmers and partners across the South West.
FWAG SouthWest is looking for a Head of Operations to help lead our organisation through its next phase. This is a senior leadership role with real influence over how we deliver our work, support our team and respond to the changing environment for farming and the environment. Working Hybrid from any of our offices across the South West, 37.5 hours per week, but applications from those looking for 4 days (30 hours) per week will also be considered.
About us
FWAG SouthWest is an environmental charity working with farmers and land managers to deliver practical change on the ground. We combine an understanding of farming businesses with environmental expertise to support better outcomes for nature, climate and food production. Our work brings people together: farmers, communities and partners to deliver change at a local and landscape scale.
As farming responds to new policy, markets and environmental pressures, our role is to help shape and deliver solutions that work, supporting resilient farm businesses alongside climate resilient landscapes and nature recovery.
The role
As Head of Operations, you will lead delivery across the South West, working through a network of county teams and specialists. Your focus will be on strengthening our ability to deliver. Supporting team leaders to grow capacity, manage workload and deliver high quality work in increasingly complex projects. You will work alongside teams to remove barriers, improve systems and step into delivery where needed helping to ensure work progresses and opportunities are achieved. Working closely with the CEO and senior team, you will help translate strategy into delivery and ensure we remain effective, responsive and financially sustainable. You will also play a key role in how we respond to change across the sector, supporting teams to navigate new policy, funding and partnership opportunities.
About you
We are looking for an experienced leader who is motivated by enabling others to deliver. You don’t need to have experience in the environmental sector. We are open to candidates from a wide range of backgrounds who can bring strong leadership, a collaborative approach, professional skills and share our values.
What matters is your ability to:
- Support and develop people to increase their capacity and confidence
- Work alongside teams to solve problems and keep delivery moving
- Manage complex programmes and competing priorities
- Put in place practical systems and structures that support delivery
- Build strong relationships across a regional organisation
An interest in farming, land management or the natural environment is important, detailed sector knowledge is desirable.
Why join us
This is an opportunity to play a key role in a charity with a strong reputation and clear purpose. You will:
- Help shape how we deliver across the South West
- Lead and support a skilled and committed team
- Work on issues that matter for the future of farming, climate and nature
- Be part of an organisation rooted in practical action and trusted relationships
Further information
- Regular travel across the South West will be required
- Flexible working, including occasional evenings
- Full driving licence and access to a vehicle essential
How to apply
Closing date for applications: Monday 22nd June, 9am Interview date: Thursday 7th July (venue local to Wellington, Somerset) Please provide a CV and covering letter, detailing your suitability for the role, ensuring the information that you provide clearly correlates to the requirements of the job. Please send your application by the closing date. Receipt of applications will be acknowledged by email only. If you do not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, it is unlikely you have been shortlisted for interview on this occasion. Due to the volume of applications we normally receive, we are usually only able to provide feedback to shortlisted candidates. We are not able to reimburse costs for attending interviews.
Head of Operations in Wellington employer: FWAG South West
FWAG SouthWest is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead transformative initiatives in farming, food, and nature across the South West. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a collaborative work culture, you will be part of a dedicated team making a tangible impact on environmental sustainability and agricultural resilience. Join us to shape the future of farming while enjoying the benefits of a supportive and purpose-driven organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in Wellington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the farming and environmental sectors. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching FWAG SouthWest and understanding their mission. Think about how your skills can help them deliver practical change. Be ready to discuss how you can support teams and manage complex projects effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During interviews, share examples of how you've enabled others to succeed. Talk about your collaborative approach and how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. This will resonate well with their values.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at FWAG SouthWest and making a difference in the farming and environmental landscape.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations in Wellington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Operations role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant skills that align with our mission at FWAG SouthWest. We want to see how you can help us deliver practical change!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about farming, food, and nature. Share specific examples of how you've supported teams in the past, as this will resonate with us.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention times when you've tackled complex challenges. We’re looking for someone who can navigate new policies and funding opportunities, so give us the goods on your problem-solving prowess!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at FWAG South West
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into FWAG SouthWest's mission and values. Understand their approach to farming, food, and nature. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Operations, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you've supported and developed teams in the past. Share specific examples of how you've managed complex programmes and navigated competing priorities to keep projects on track.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle real-world challenges in the role. Think about potential barriers in delivery and how you would address them. This shows your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for the Environment
While you don’t need extensive experience in the environmental sector, showing a genuine interest in farming, land management, or nature is key. Share any relevant experiences or insights that connect your background to their mission, even if it's from a different field.
