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 £100,000-£120,000 plus car and benefits package.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of British farming and rural communities.
- Qualifications: Significant HR leadership experience and a track record in shaping people strategies.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities to influence and inspire at the highest levels.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 120000 £ 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 £100,000-£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 — Strategy & Inclusion in Kenilworth employer: National Farmers' Union (nfu)
Contact Detail:
National Farmers' Union (nfu) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People & Culture — Strategy & Inclusion in Kenilworth
✨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 personal introduction can make all the difference in getting your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the NFU's values and current initiatives. Show us that you understand their mission and how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your responses to highlight your strategic thinking and people leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've shaped organisational culture and driven people strategies in the past. We want to hear about your successes and how you can bring that expertise to the NFU.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your enthusiasm for the role can keep you top of mind. Plus, it shows your professionalism and genuine interest in joining the NFU team.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People & Culture — Strategy & Inclusion in Kenilworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of People & Culture role. Highlight your experience in shaping people strategies and influencing senior leaders, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We want to see how you lead! Share examples of how you've built high-performing teams and fostered an inclusive culture. This will help us understand your approach to leadership and how it aligns with our values.
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. We value authenticity and want to know what makes you tick, especially when it comes to championing wellbeing and inclusion.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Farmers' Union (nfu)
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the NFU's mission and values. Understand their current challenges in British agriculture and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their people strategy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your leadership philosophy and how it aligns with a values-driven culture. Prepare examples of how you've successfully built high-performing teams and influenced senior leaders in previous roles. This will demonstrate your capability to lead at the Executive Leadership Team level.
✨Engage with Inclusion and Wellbeing
Since the role emphasises wellbeing and inclusion, come prepared with ideas on how to champion these areas within the organisation. Share specific initiatives you've led that fostered an inclusive environment and improved employee engagement.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that show your strategic thinking. Inquire about the NFU's future direction, challenges they face in shaping their culture, and how they measure success in their people agenda. This not only shows your interest but also your understanding of the role's impact.