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- Tasks: Lead and manage field crop trials, ensuring high-quality results in a commercial farming environment.
- Company: Join Niab, a leader in agricultural innovation with a commitment to sustainability and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, paid overtime, a generous pension scheme, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in agriculture while working in a supportive and inclusive team.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of arable production, experience managing trials, and relevant certifications are essential.
- Other info: Flexibility for outdoor work and travel to various trial sites is required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 42000 £ per year.
From £31,148 + overtime
Permanent, full-time
Callow, Hereford, HR2 8DA
ABOUT THE JOB
Are you ready to take your agricultural career to the next level? We are looking for a committed and driven Regional Trials Centre Manager to lead operations at our Hereford Regional Centre. In this role, you will manage field crop trials and deliver high-quality results in a commercial farming environment, focusing on cereals, oilseed rape, pulses, and forage crops.
This opportunity is ideal for individuals of all backgrounds who are passionate about advancing agricultural innovation and want to play a vital role in shaping the future of farming.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead and manage field trials and demonstration plots across various crop species.
• Plan and execute trials, including site selection, seed preparation, drilling, spraying, harvesting, and processing.
• Oversee day-to-day operations at the centre, including budgets, staff performance, and resource allocation.
• Developing and maintaining a good working collaboration with the Centre host/farm is also fundamental to the role.
• Conduct plant and crop assessments, collate trial data, and ensure timely delivery of results.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with host growers, customers, and internal stakeholders.
• Collaborate with other regional centres to support the national trials programme.
• Ensure equipment and facilities are well-maintained, adhering to health and safety policies.
Working Conditions:
• A mix of office and fieldwork, requiring flexibility and resilience to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Physically demanding tasks, including manual handling of items up to 25kg, such as seed bags and sprayers.
• Periods of lone working and additional hours during peak seasons are expected.
ABOUT YOU
You will have:
• Knowledge of arable production systems and field trials procedures.
• Skills in drilling, spraying, and harvesting.
• Experience managing field crop trials and a team.
• Pesticide application certifications (PA1, PA6) and strong IT proficiency (Microsoft Office 365).
• Excellent organisational and leadership skills, with the ability to work under pressure.
A full UK driving licence is essential. Travel to other trial sites in the region and occasionally to other UK centres is required. Transport can be provided from the Hereford office to various sites.
Desirable Qualifications and Skills:
• A degree in agriculture or a related field.
• BASIS, FACTS, or other professional certifications.
• Experience operating agricultural equipment (PA2, Forklift/Telehandler).
ABOUT US
Niab is the UK’s leading crop science organisation, renowned for its expertise in plant genetics, agronomy, farming systems, and data science. We operate the largest field trials capability in the country, supported by strong partnerships with industry, government, and academia.
Our West Regional trials team plays a pivotal role, managing over 20,000 plots across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Gloucestershire, and Wales. Combining local knowledge, technical expertise, and teamwork, we deliver innovative research and insights that drive agricultural innovation and sustainability.
WHY JOIN US
When you join Niab, you become part of a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive environment that values diversity and empowers everyone to succeed. With over 400 dedicated staff nationwide, we provide opportunities for professional growth and a chance to make a meaningful impact in the future of agriculture.
We offer a competitive salary, paid overtime during peak seasons, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
• 25 days’ holiday, plus public holidays and 3 extra days over Christmas.
• Generous pension scheme and sick pay.
• Life assurance, income protection, and employee discounts.
As a Disability Confident Employer, we are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of society.
TO APPLY
For further details and to apply, please visit our website via the ‘Apply’ button.
Closing date: 23 February 2025.
Interview date: 6 March 2025 at our offices in Callow, Hereford.
We actively encourage applications from people of all genders and diverse backgrounds to ensure our team reflects the world we serve.
Please note that following changes to Immigration Law in April 2024, this role does not qualify for a Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Candidates with independently held immigration permission would be considered
Regional Trials Centre Manager employer: NIAB
Contact Detail:
NIAB Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Regional Trials Centre Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific crop species mentioned in the job description, such as cereals and oilseed rape. Understanding their growth cycles and challenges will help you demonstrate your expertise during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the agricultural sector, especially those involved in field trials. Attend local agricultural events or workshops to build connections that could provide insights or referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight your experience with managing teams and field operations in previous roles. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led projects or improved processes in a similar environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in agricultural innovation and sustainability. Being knowledgeable about current advancements will show your passion for the industry and your commitment to driving progress in farming practices.
We think you need these skills to ace Regional Trials Centre Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Regional Trials Centre Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as managing field trials and collaborating with host growers.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize your experience in agricultural production systems, field trials, and team management. Mention any relevant certifications like PA1, PA6, or BASIS that you possess.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Demonstrate your leadership abilities by providing examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlight your organizational skills and ability to work under pressure.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Customize your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the job. Use keywords from the job description to ensure your application stands out and aligns with what the company is looking for.
How to prepare for a job interview at NIAB
✨Show Your Passion for Agriculture
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for agricultural innovation during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to advancements in farming practices or technologies in your previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of arable production systems and field trial procedures. Highlight any relevant certifications you hold, such as pesticide application certifications, and explain how they apply to the role.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Skills
Since this position involves managing a team, be ready to provide examples of your leadership experience. Discuss how you've successfully led teams in the past, managed budgets, and ensured high-quality results in field trials.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in fieldwork and how you overcame them, especially in relation to site selection, resource allocation, and collaboration with host growers.
