At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the people strategy and culture at a key organisation in British agriculture.
- Company: Join the National Farmers' Union, a champion for over 43,000 farming businesses.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of Β£100,000-Β£120,000 plus car and benefits package.
- Why this job: Shape the future of agriculture and make a real impact on rural communities.
- Qualifications: Senior HR leadership experience and a track record of delivering people strategies.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities to influence and inspire at the highest levels.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 120000 Β£ per year.
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Location: Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire
Macmillan Davies is delighted to be partnering with the National Farmers' Union as the dedicated search partner in the appointment of their next Director of People & Culture. This is a rare and exciting leadership opportunity to shape the people strategy, culture, and leadership capability of a truly unique organisation at the heart of British agriculture.
About the NFU
The NFU represents over 43,000 farming and growing businesses across England and Wales championing British agriculture and horticulture, campaigning for a stable and sustainable future for British farmers to secure the best possible deal for their members. The NFU is a purpose driven organisation with national influence, advocating for members, shaping government policy, and supporting the sector through a complex and evolving environment. Colleagues at the NFU thrive in an environment that is inclusive, professional, resourceful, and united, where leadership is values-driven, and contribution is genuinely recognised. This is a place where you can make a real impact on both the organisation and the national agricultural community.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Director General and sitting on the Executive Leadership Team, the Director of People & Culture will lead the NFU's people agenda, embedding it at the heart of organisational strategy. This role offers a once-in-a-career chance to shape culture, develop leadership capability, and influence an organisation that is vital to British farming.
- Drive a strategic, forward-looking people agenda that strengthens leadership, engagement, and organisational performance.
- Act as a trusted adviser to the Director General and Executive Team on all people and culture matters.
- Build and nurture a high-performing, values-driven workforce, ensuring colleagues can thrive and deliver their best work.
- Lead talent and leadership development initiatives to ensure a strong pipeline of future leaders.
- Champion wellbeing, inclusion, and a culture where everyone feels empowered and supported.
- Work collaboratively to develop a pipeline of future NFU member leaders.
This is a significant opportunity to influence, inspire, and leave a lasting legacy in an organisation that makes a real difference to the UK's farming and rural communities.
Who we're looking for
We're seeking a strategic People leader who is based in the Midlands and has the credibility, judgement and executive presence to operate effectively at Executive Leadership Team level within a purpose-driven organisation. You will bring the ability to shape organisational culture, influence senior leaders and deliver a people strategy that supports long-term organisational success.
- Significant senior HR leadership experience, operating at Director level or equivalent within complex organisations.
- A proven track record of shaping and delivering people strategies that drive measurable organisational outcomes.
- Experience advising and influencing senior leaders and boards on strategic people matters.
- Demonstrated success in building and leading high-performing People teams.
- Experience embedding values-led leadership and shaping organisational culture.
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence across diverse audiences.
You will demonstrate:
- Strategic thinking combined with pragmatic decision-making.
- Executive presence and the ability to influence at the highest levels of an organisation.
- The ability to build trusted relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders.
- High levels of integrity, sound judgement and professionalism.
- A collaborative and inclusive leadership style that enables others to perform at their best.
In return a competitive executive salary of Β£100,000-Β£120,000 plus car and benefits package will be offered, reflecting the significance and strategic impact of the role within the National Farmers' Union.
To Register Your Interest
The NFU has appointed Macmillan Davies as its exclusive search partner. For further information and to apply, contact Samantha Pepperell directly at spepperell@mdhr.co.uk. Closing date: 12:00 noon, Monday 6th April 2026.
Director of People & Culture in Kenilworth employer: National Farmers' Union (nfu)
Contact Detail:
National Farmers' Union (nfu) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Director of People & Culture in Kenilworth
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who might know someone at the NFU. A friendly chat can open doors that applications alone can't.
β¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the NFU's culture and values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission. We want to see you shine!
β¨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've shaped culture and driven engagement in previous roles. This is your chance to demonstrate your impact.
β¨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People & Culture in Kenilworth
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Director of People & Culture role. Highlight your strategic thinking and leadership capabilities, as these are key for this position.
Showcase Your Impact: When detailing your previous roles, focus on the measurable outcomes you've achieved. Use examples that demonstrate how you've shaped organisational culture and driven people strategies that led to success.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. The NFU values a collaborative and inclusive leadership style, so share your genuine passion for people and culture in your writing.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This ensures your application is received promptly and allows us to keep track of all candidates effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Farmers' Union (nfu)
β¨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the NFU's mission and values. Understand their current challenges in the agricultural sector and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also genuinely care about the organisation.
β¨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director of People & Culture, your leadership style is crucial. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've shaped organisational culture and led high-performing teams. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and make them impactful.
β¨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your strategic thinking. Ask about the NFU's future initiatives for talent development or how they measure the success of their people strategies. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your values.
β¨Be Authentic and Inclusive
The NFU values inclusivity and collaboration. During the interview, reflect these values in your communication. Share experiences where you've fostered an inclusive environment and empowered others. Authenticity goes a long way in making a lasting impression!