At a Glance
- Tasks: Support farmers by organising events, accessing funding, and delivering practical business support.
- Company: Join Northumberland National Park Authority, dedicated to rural community support.
- Benefits: Flexible working, training opportunities, and a collaborative team culture.
- Other info: Exciting career growth towards becoming a Farming and Rural Enterprise Officer.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on farming businesses and rural communities in the North East.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, IT proficiency, and a passion for rural enterprise.
The predicted salary is between 32061 - 32061 £ per year.
North East Farm Business Support Service
Based at Hexham or Rothbury with some home working
£29,064 - £32,061 per annum
Full time or part time applications considered
Fixed term to March 2029
About this role
Do you believe farming is at the heart of our rural communities? Are you passionate about supporting farmers to build resilient, sustainable and successful businesses? Northumberland National Park Authority is looking for a Programme Support Officer to join our North East Farm Business Support Service, delivered on behalf of the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority. This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside a dedicated team delivering practical business support to farmers across the region.
You’ll meet farmers on their holdings, help them access funding and advice, organise events and workshops, and play a vital role in delivering a programme that will strengthen the future of farming in the North East. No two days are the same. One day you might be helping organise a technical workshop for livestock farmers; the next you’ll be supporting a farm business through the programme registration process or representing the service at an agricultural show.
We’re looking for someone who:
- Understands the opportunities and challenges facing today’s farming businesses.
- Enjoys working with people and building trusted relationships.
- Is organised, proactive and able to manage a varied workload.
- Has strong administrative and IT skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Wants to make a positive difference to rural communities.
Whether you already have experience supporting projects or are looking to develop your career in rural enterprise, this role offers an excellent opportunity to grow.
What you’ll gain
Working with Northumberland National Park Authority means joining a team committed to supporting the people, places and businesses that make our landscapes special. In return, we offer:
- Flexible and hybrid working.
- A supportive and collaborative team culture.
- Opportunities for training and professional development.
- Meaningful work that directly benefits farmers and rural communities.
- A clear development pathway towards becoming a Farming and Rural Enterprise Officer.
If you’re excited by the opportunity to support farming businesses, develop your career and make a lasting contribution to the rural economy of the North East, we’d love to hear from you.
Closing date for applications is 8am Tuesday, 14 July.
Programme Support Officer – North East Farm Business Support Service in Hexham employer: Northumberland National Park
Joining the Northumberland National Park Authority as a Programme Support Officer offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the sustainability of rural communities while enjoying a flexible and supportive work environment. With a focus on professional development and meaningful engagement with local farmers, employees can expect to grow their careers in a collaborative team culture that values innovation and community impact. This role not only allows for hybrid working arrangements but also provides the chance to make a tangible difference in the agricultural sector of the North East.
Contact Details:
Northumberland National Park Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Support Officer – North East Farm Business Support Service in Hexham
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Northumberland National Park often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Support Officer – North East Farm Business Support Service 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.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
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 does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumberland National Park
✨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 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.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
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.
