At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage the North East Farm Business Support Service, driving innovative support for farming.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking National Park Authority with strong values and a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, and the chance to work in stunning landscapes.
- Other info: Flexible working options and excellent career growth opportunities await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on rural communities and farm businesses during a transformative period.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education in land-based or project management discipline; experience in managing projects and teams.
The predicted salary is between 35700 - 40000 £ per year.
£41,771 - £46,142 per annum | Fixed Term (3 years) | Full Time
Rothbury or Hexham (hybrid working available)
About the role
We’re looking for an experienced, motivated and collaborative leader to take on the role of Service Manager for the North East Farm Business Support Service, an exciting regional programme supporting farm businesses and rural communities across the North East. Working within our Park Management Directorate, you’ll provide strategic leadership for the service on behalf of Northumberland National Park Authority and key regional partners. You’ll manage a small project team, oversee programme delivery and budgets, and act as a key ambassador for the project locally, regionally and nationally. This is a high-profile role offering the opportunity to shape and showcase innovative support for farming, land management and rural enterprise during a period of significant change for the sector.
What you’ll be doing
- Leading the strategic development and delivery of the North East Farm Business Support Service
- Managing and supporting a small team, fostering a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture
- Working closely with delivery partners including Northumberland County Council, Durham County Council, Gateshead Council and the North East Combined Authority
- Holding overall responsibility for budget management, claims, reporting and programme governance
- Promoting and showcasing the programme internally and externally, including engagement with land managers, education providers, food and drink initiatives and the agri-tech sector
- Leading monitoring, evaluation and reporting to funding bodies and partner organisations
- Preparing and presenting reports to ensure effective governance, compliance and accountability
About you
You’ll bring a strong mix of strategic thinking, partnership working and practical delivery experience, along with a genuine understanding of farming and rural economies. We’re looking for someone who has:
- Degree-level education in a land-based or project management discipline (or equivalent experience)
- Strong knowledge of farm businesses and the policy landscape affecting farming and rural communities
- Proven experience of managing people, projects and budgets, ideally within grant-funded programmes
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the confidence to work with landowners, partners and senior stakeholders
- Experience of collaborative partnership working and externally delivered contracts
- The ability to lead independently, build relationships and engage stakeholders early and effectively
Be part of a forward-thinking National Park Authority with strong values and a collaborative culture. Play a key role in shaping the future of farming and rural enterprise in the North East. Flexible hybrid working and the chance to work across one of the UK’s most inspiring landscapes. Work on a flagship regional programme with real impact for farm businesses and communities.
How to apply
If this role sounds like it’s for you, then we really would like to hear from you. The Park Authority is an inclusive organisation, and we welcome applications from everyone irrespective of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion and belief, pregnancy and maternity, relationship status, disability, age and social class. If you are an applicant with disabilities who meets the essential requirements of the post, we will interview you. For more information, please see our job pack available on our website.
North East Farm Business Support Service 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 North East Farm Business Support Service Manager in Hexham
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
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We think you need these skills to ace North East Farm Business Support Service Manager in Hexham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
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Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Northumberland National Park Authority does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumberland National Park Authority
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Northumberland National Park Authority will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Northumberland National Park Authority.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
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Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Northumberland National Park Authority.
