At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the NFU in shaping the future of British agriculture and food production.
- Company: Join the National Farmers' Union, a key voice in UK agriculture.
- Benefits: Be part of a respected organisation with a focus on sustainability and community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a pivotal role during a time of change in agriculture.
- Qualifications: Experience in agriculture or food supply, with strong leadership and communication skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for travel and collaboration with government and industry leaders.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The National Farmers Union (NFU) is the most influential voice in British agriculture, representing over 44,000 farming and growing businesses across England and Wales. As a force for change and a champion for the sector, the NFU shapes national policy, strengthens rural communities, and promotes the vital role of sustainable food production.
We are now seeking a visionary and values-driven leader to become our next Director General. You will lead with integrity and purpose, consistently role-modelling the NFU values of unity, professionalism, inclusivity, and resourcefulness in all you do.
This is a pivotal role at the heart of a changing and high-profile industry. As Director General, you will lead the NFU through a time of significant challenge and opportunity, ranging from the transition to post-subsidy agriculture and environmental land management schemes to food security, global trade, and evolving consumer expectations. You will guide the organisation with clarity, credibility, and conviction, strengthening our position as the trusted and authoritative voice of British farming.
Working in close partnership with our elected Officeholders and NFU Council, and leading a talented executive team, you will set a bold strategic direction for the Union. You will ensure our policy positions remain evidence-led and member-informed, and that our voice is heard at the highest levels of government, business, and the media.
You are likely to bring:
- Deep understanding of the agricultural sector, either directly or through adjacent experience in the wider food supply chain.
- A track record of strategic leadership in complex, high-stakes environments.
- Outstanding communication and influencing skills, with the political acumen to build credibility across government and industry.
- Strong commercial and financial oversight capabilities, with a flair for driving innovation and ensuring long-term organisational sustainability.
- A collaborative, inclusive leadership style and the personal integrity to represent the NFU's values and mission with authenticity.
This is a unique opportunity to lead one of the UK’s most respected membership organisations, and to shape the future of food, farming, and the countryside.
Location: This role is based at NFU's Stoneleigh office, with regular travel required to Westminster and other locations across England and Wales.
The NFU is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds and sectors.
Director General in Kenilworth employer: NFU (National Farmers' Union)
Contact Detail:
NFU (National Farmers' Union) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director General in Kenilworth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the agricultural sector and let them know you're on the hunt for the Director General role. You never know who might have insider info or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching NFU's recent initiatives and challenges. Show us that you understand their mission and values, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your vision for the role and how you plan to lead the NFU through its current challenges. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Director General in Kenilworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Agriculture: When writing your application, let your love for the agricultural sector shine through. We want to see how your values align with the NFU's mission and how you can contribute to shaping the future of farming.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your experience and skills are easy to understand. Highlight your strategic leadership and communication skills without fluff!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We’re looking for someone who understands the unique challenges facing the NFU. Make sure to tailor your application to reflect how your background and expertise fit the role of Director General.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the NFU team!
How to prepare for a job interview at NFU (National Farmers' Union)
✨Know Your Sector Inside Out
Make sure you have a deep understanding of the agricultural sector and its current challenges. Brush up on recent policies, environmental land management schemes, and food security issues. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely invested in the future of British farming.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a candidate for Director General, it's crucial to convey your collaborative and inclusive leadership style. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams through complex situations, highlighting how you embody the NFU's values of unity and professionalism.
✨Communicate with Clarity and Conviction
Outstanding communication skills are key for this role. Practice articulating your vision for the NFU and how you plan to strengthen its position as a trusted voice in agriculture. Be ready to discuss how you would engage with government and industry stakeholders effectively.
✨Prepare for Tough Questions
Expect questions about your strategic leadership experience and how you would handle high-stakes environments. Think about potential challenges the NFU might face and prepare thoughtful responses that showcase your problem-solving abilities and innovative thinking.