At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead farming and rural enterprise initiatives for nature recovery and environmental improvement.
- Company: Join Northumberland National Park Authority, dedicated to protecting stunning landscapes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working options, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth while supporting sustainable rural communities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of farming and nature recovery in a breathtaking national park.
- Qualifications: Experience in agricultural policy, grant schemes, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Help shape the future of farming, land management and nature recovery across one of England’s most spectacular protected landscapes. We’re looking for an experienced Farming and Rural Enterprise Manager to join Northumberland National Park Authority and lead our Farming and Rural Enterprise Team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering our ambitions for nature recovery, resilient farming systems and landscape-scale environmental improvement, working directly with farmers, landowners, communities and a wide range of partners.
About the role
Reporting to the Head of Farming and Rural Enterprise, you will lead the development and delivery of land management activity that supports the 25 Year Environment Plan, 30 by 30 ambitions and the objectives of the Northumberland National Park Management Plan, Business Plan and Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
You will:
- Lead and manage the Farming and Rural Enterprise Team, including work programming and delivery.
- Work with land managers to deliver environmental improvement, habitat connectivity and nature recovery alongside more resilient farming systems.
- Develop integrated delivery plans across programmes including Farming in Protected Landscapes, Wildlife Rich Habitats, 30 by 30 and agri-environment programmes.
- Help drive landscape-scale projects including the Hadrian’s Wall Wetlands Landscape Recovery project and the North East Farm Business Support Service.
- Provide expert advice on farming, land management, natural capital, nature recovery and rural enterprise.
- Develop strong partnerships with farmers, landowners, agencies, communities and other stakeholders.
- Support policy and strategy development at local, regional and national level.
About you
We’re looking for someone with a strong understanding of agricultural and forestry land management policy, grant schemes and environmental improvement, together with knowledge of the issues facing rural upland communities. You’ll be an excellent communicator and negotiator, able to build trusted relationships with landowners and partners and influence others to achieve shared objectives. You’ll also bring experience of agri-environment schemes, rural grant programmes and collaborative projects, together with the ability to provide specialist advice and translate strategic objectives into practical delivery. Knowledge of National Parks or protected areas and experience of working in an upland environment would be an advantage.
Why join us?
This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference to the future of farming and nature recovery across Northumberland National Park, working at landscape scale and alongside the people who manage and care for it. You’ll join an organisation committed to protecting and enhancing this special landscape while supporting sustainable rural communities and businesses.
Location: Rothbury or Hexham, with travel throughout the National Park (some hybrid working available)
Salary: £41771 - 46142 per annum
Contract: Fixed term to 31 March 2029
If you have the expertise, leadership skills and passion to help deliver a more resilient and nature-rich future for farming and rural communities, we’d love to hear from you. Please visit our website, read the job pack and complete the online application form.
Farming and Rural Enterprise Manager in Hexham employer: Northumberland National Park Authority
Northumberland National Park Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the farming community while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working. With a strong commitment to employee development and a supportive work culture, staff are encouraged to grow their skills and contribute to meaningful projects that benefit rural areas. Located in the picturesque North East, employees can enjoy a fulfilling career in a vibrant environment that values passion for agriculture and community engagement.
Contact Details:
Northumberland National Park Authority Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Farming and Rural Enterprise Manager in Hexham
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Local Farms
Don’t be shy about visiting local farms and agricultural businesses — many of them often need extra hands, especially during busy seasons. Take a trip to farmers' markets, community gardens, and agricultural fairs; you’ll make connections and might hear about temporary roles before they’re advertised.
✨Join Agricultural Community Groups
Get involved in local farming networks or online communities dedicated to agriculture. These platforms often share job openings, volunteer opportunities, and events. Plus, building relationships in these circles can lead to recommendations and insider information about temporary gigs.
✨Seasonal Hiring Peaks – Be Prepared
Keep an eye on the seasonal hiring windows; many farms look for temporary workers during harvest time. Be proactive! Reach out to farms directly before peak season and express your interest in helping during those busy periods. It's all about timing!
✨Showcase Your Skills on Our Website
When you find a role you like, make sure to apply through our website! Highlight any relevant skills or experiences, such as volunteering or coursework related to agriculture, which can make you stand out in your application for temporary positions with companies like Northumberland National Park Authority.
We think you need these skills to ace Farming and Rural Enterprise Manager in Hexham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience with Plants:In agriculture, it’s all about hands-on experience, right? Make sure your CV showcases any relevant work you've done with crops, livestock, or even through volunteering. If you’ve held a position that involved tilling the soil or caring for plants, mention specifics so we can see your skills in action!
Highlight Your Physical Stamina:Temporary roles in agriculture can be physically demanding. Don't hesitate to mention any relevant physical capabilities or previous tough gigs you’ve tackled. This gives us confidence that you’re up for the challenges the job might throw at you!
Tailor Your Application to the Weather!:When applying for a temporary gig at Northumberland National Park Authority, it's super important to let us know your availability, considering that agricultural work can sometimes be influenced by seasons or weather patterns. Make it clear when you can jump in, whether that’s for a few weeks or a month!
Bring along Any Certifications:If you have any cool certificates related to agriculture, like health and safety or machinery operation, be sure to include these in your application. They can really set you apart and show that you’re not just a regular applicant—you're someone who comes prepped and ready to contribute!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumberland National Park Authority
✨Show Off Your Practical Skills
In the agriculture field, hands-on experience is key. Be ready to chat about any specific tools or machinery you've worked with, whether it’s tractors, irrigation systems, or general farm equipment. If you’ve got experience with crop management or livestock care, flaunt that too!
✨Understand Seasonal Dynamics
Temporary roles in agriculture often revolve around peak seasons, so brush up on how the seasonal cycles affect agricultural work. Familiarise yourself with the planting and harvesting schedules for different crops. This shows that you're not just looking for a job; you understand the industry's rhythm!
✨Flex Your Adaptability
Temporary roles require a bit of flexibility as the tasks can change rapidly. Be ready to discuss past experiences where you had to pivot quickly, whether it was dealing with sudden weather changes or shifting priorities. Employers love seeing that we can adapt and tackle unexpected challenges!
✨Mindful of Safety Regulations
In agriculture, health and safety are paramount. Brush up on relevant safety regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've contributed to a safe work environment in previous positions. Demonstrating your knowledge of these practices will show your commitment to maintaining a secure workplace.
