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- Tasks: Lead economic strategy and analysis for British agriculture, shaping policy and business dynamics.
- Company: Join the National Farmers' Union, the voice of 44,000 British farmers.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, health insurance, performance pay, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on UK agriculture and drive innovation in the sector.
- Qualifications: Strong background in economics, agricultural policy, and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 112000 £ per year.
Job Description
Salary: c. £80,000+ (Negotiable dependant on skills and experience)
Location: London or Stoneleigh, Warwickshire with agile working
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract Type: Permanent
Are you a visionary economic leader ready to shape the future of British agriculture? The National Farmers' Union (NFU) is seeking an exceptional Chief Economist to lead our economic strategy, analysis, and commentary on agricultural policy and farm business dynamics.
This is a cornerstone role at the NFU, responsible for driving our high-quality insight, influence, and innovation across the agricultural sector. Operating ahead of the curve, you will be anticipating emerging risks and growth opportunities across the agri-food sector. You will deliver authoritative, independent expertise and analysis to inform changes to national policy development and business relationships necessary to support our members' business resilience.
What you'll be doing
Commission and lead high-impact, authoritative economic analysis on agricultural policy and farm business dynamics.
Anticipate and interpret emerging economic threats and opportunities affecting UK farm profitability and sustainability.
Provide expert, evidence-led advice to NFU Officeholders, Boards, and staff to shape policy discussions and commercial relationships.
Act as the NFU's principal economic spokesperson internally and externally, engaging with government departments, financial institutions, and industry stakeholders.
Manage and develop a high-performing team, fostering innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
What we're looking for
An exceptional collaborator with demonstrable thought leadership in economics or market policy analysis.
Strong understanding of agricultural policy, food systems, or financial markets.
Political awareness and excellent influencing skills.
Accomplished communicator and relationship builder across policy and commercial settings. Experienced with media handling.
Why choose us?
Join us and you'll find an organisation that encourages and enables you to achieve your full potential. In return you will be rewarded with a full range of benefits including:
Generous holiday allowance (30 days a year + Bank Holidays), plus 1 annual company day
Option to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave
Company funded health Cashplan
Health insurance
Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental leave
Performance-related pay
Competitive Pension and Life assurance
Access to interest-free loans for cars, bikes, season tickets and driving lessons
Employee Assistance program to help you deal with life's challenges
Discounts on a range of new vehicles, holiday rentals, wellbeing and lifestyle and many more
Attractive, modern office, with on-site restaurant and free parking
Who we are
Every day, we're the voice of around 44,000 British farmers and growers who produce food, making sure their concerns are heard at the heart of government both online and locally. This means developing strong relationships with everyone from NFU colleagues to government ministers. So, as well as having a high profile in both the media and Westminster, we work with and support local members through a network of regional and county offices across England and Wales.
Policy and Trade & Business Strategy
This team is responsible for identifying the emerging economic threats, needs and opportunities that will affect the sustainability, profitability and productivity of UK farm businesses. This means anticipating and responding to national and international developments, engaging with and advising NFU members and providing authoritative commentary and expertise to put the NFU decisions into action.
It's exciting, complex work, covering every area of farming and dealing with a range of stakeholders, from government ministers, civil servants and the media, to local NFU branches. The sheer variety of our work means you can be involved in a wide range of projects, providing leadership and technical expertise from initial research to policy delivery. Our collaborative approach means you'll find plenty of opportunities to build your knowledge it's up to you to take them.
Join us
We're committed to recruiting a diverse and highly-talented workforce. We'll support you by providing you with extensive learning and development opportunities and build a career that balances your professional ambitions with your personal commitments including discussions around agile and flexible work options.
We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. If we decide we've found the right person for the role, we reserve the right to withdraw this advert and close applications before the closing date.
You may also have experience in the following roles: Senior Economist, Head of Economics, Economic Policy Director, Agricultural Economist, Lead Economist, Director of Economic Research, Principal Economist, Economic Strategy Director, Policy Economist, Head of Economic Analysis, etc.
REF-224 715
JBRP1_UKTJ
Chief Economist employer: NFU
Contact Detail:
NFU Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Economist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and engage in discussions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Chief Economist role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your insights on agricultural policy and economic trends during interviews. Bring real examples of how you've influenced decisions or strategies in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for media interactions! As a potential spokesperson, practice your communication skills. You want to be confident and articulate when discussing complex economic issues with various stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative. Make sure your application reflects your collaborative spirit and thought leadership in economics. Let's shape the future of British agriculture together!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Economist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in economic analysis and agricultural policy. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Chief Economist, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Thought Leadership: As a visionary economic leader, it’s crucial to demonstrate your thought leadership in your application. Share examples of how you've influenced policy or driven innovation in previous roles. We’re looking for someone who can lead the charge in shaping agricultural economics!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at NFU!
How to prepare for a job interview at NFU
✨Know Your Economics Inside Out
As a Chief Economist, you'll need to demonstrate a deep understanding of agricultural policy and market dynamics. Brush up on recent trends and challenges in the agri-food sector, and be ready to discuss how these impact UK farm profitability. This will show your expertise and readiness to lead.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
You'll be acting as the NFU's principal economic spokesperson, so practice articulating complex economic concepts clearly and confidently. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with stakeholders in the past, whether in media settings or policy discussions.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to anticipate economic threats and opportunities. Think about specific scenarios you might face in this role and how you would approach them. This will demonstrate your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Experience
Managing a high-performing team is key in this role. Be ready to share your experiences in leading teams, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation. Discuss how you've developed talent and improved team performance in previous positions.