Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to drive scientific excellence and public impact in agri-food and biosciences.
- Company: Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute, a leader in scientific research and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £123k, generous pension contribution, and impactful work.
- Why this job: Shape the future of science and make a real difference in society.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for scientific excellence.
- Other info: Join a diverse and inclusive workplace committed to making a positive impact.
The predicted salary is between 113060 - 123946 £ per year.
Salary scale: £113,060 - £123,946 per annum (analogous to Senior Civil Service Grade 3) Plus an employer pension contribution of 34.25%
Location: AFBI Headquarters, Newforge Lane, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Ref: E0001/26
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for science and a proven track record of guiding multi-disciplinary organisations? The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) is seeking a dynamic Chief Executive to lead the Institute into its next era of scientific excellence and public impact. This is a unique opportunity to shape the direction of a leading science-led organisation and make a tangible difference across Northern Ireland's agri-food, biosciences, and environmental sectors.
The Board seeks to recruit a transformative leader who will ensure the Institute fulfils its potential as a dynamic, agile science organisation, capable of attracting and retaining ambitious staff who are committed to making a difference. As Chief Executive, you will lead AFBI's Executive Management Team and staff, ensuring the Institute continues to thrive as a centre of excellence. You will be accountable to the Board for all aspects of the Institute's work, maintaining the highest standards of corporate governance while driving strategic development and scientific progress across its remit.
Why AFBI? This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead a world-class Institute that delivers meaningful scientific impact across Northern Ireland. AFBI provides cutting-edge research and services in agri-food, biosciences, and environmental science, supporting policy, industry, and public good. As Chief Executive, you will shape the future of the Institute, influence national and international scientific agendas, and ensure that AFBI continues to deliver outstanding outcomes for society.
If you are an accomplished leader with a commitment to scientific excellence, high standards of governance, and a passion for public service, this is your opportunity to apply today to guide AFBI into its next era of achievement and impact.
This competition is being managed by Hays Executive Search. Closing date for applications: 12 noon, Friday 30 January 2026.
AFBI is an equal opportunities employer and has been awarded the Diversity Mark Accreditation in recognition for our commitment towards Gender Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace. All appointments will be made strictly on the basis of merit.
Chief Executive in Belfast employer: HAYS Specialist Recruitment
Contact Detail:
HAYS Specialist Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the agri-food and biosciences sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching AFBI thoroughly. Understand their mission, recent projects, and challenges they face. We want you to show that you’re not just a fit for the role, but that you’re genuinely passionate about leading the Institute into its next era.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of specific examples where you’ve led teams through change or innovation. We want you to demonstrate your transformative leadership style and how it aligns with AFBI’s goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for candidates who are proactive and engaged in the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Vision: As a Chief Executive, we want to see your visionary leadership skills shine through. Make sure to articulate your vision for AFBI and how you plan to drive scientific excellence and public impact in your application.
Highlight Your Experience: We’re looking for someone with a proven track record in guiding multi-disciplinary organisations. Be sure to showcase your relevant experience and achievements that demonstrate your capability to lead AFBI into its next era.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We encourage you to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Chief Executive role at AFBI. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and understand what we’re about.
Apply Through Our Website: To make things easier for us and you, please apply directly through our website. It streamlines the process and ensures your application gets to the right place without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at HAYS Specialist Recruitment
✨Know Your Vision
As a candidate for Chief Executive, it's crucial to articulate your vision for the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute. Prepare to discuss how you would lead the organisation into its next era of scientific excellence and public impact. Think about specific strategies you would implement to attract and retain ambitious staff.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Highlight your proven track record in guiding multi-disciplinary organisations. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams, driven strategic development, and maintained high standards of corporate governance in previous roles. This will show that you have the experience needed to thrive at AFBI.
✨Understand the Sector
Familiarise yourself with the current trends and challenges in the agri-food, biosciences, and environmental sectors. Being knowledgeable about these areas will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your commitment to making a tangible difference across Northern Ireland.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare insightful questions to ask the Board. Inquire about their expectations for the new Chief Executive and how they envision the future of AFBI. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your leadership style and values.
