Work with us at Riverford, and join a thriving employee-owned business as a Non Executive Director A bit about the role… We’re looking for a Non-Executive Director to join the Riverford Board. The Board's role is to shape and oversee Riverford's long-term success, ensuring we continue to grow sustainably while staying true to the values set out in our Founder’s Wishes. Riverford is entering an exciting new chapter. We have ambitious plans for growth and are making significant investments across the business to help us get there. Alongside exploring new market opportunities, we're investing heavily in automation, systems and operational efficiency to strengthen our competitiveness and create capacity for future growth. These decisions will shape Riverford for years to come. We're looking for a Non-Executive Director who has first-hand experience of helping businesses navigate similar periods of growth, investment and transformation. Someone who can bring practical insight, constructive challenge and real-world experience of making big decisions in growing organisations. As a trusted adviser and critical friend to the Board, CEO and CFO, you'll help us think clearly about growth opportunities, investment priorities, capital allocation and long-term value creation, while ensuring we stay true to our employee-owned and values-led roots. We're looking for someone who can help us be ambitious in the right places. You'll bring the experience to help us think carefully about where to invest, when to move quickly and when to take a step back. This is an opportunity to help shape the next stage of Riverford's growth as we make significant investments across the business while remaining true to ourselves. Key responsibilities… Act as a “critical friend”, partnering with the CEO & CFO and the wider executive team to achieve Riverford’s strategic objectives, bringing both support and constructive challenge. Help the Board make good decisions about borrowing, investment, growth and priorities, bringing an independent perspective to discussions and helping us balance opportunities, risks and long-term value. Share experience of growing and scaling businesses to support Riverford's next stage of development, helping us decide where to focus our time, energy and resources, and when to move faster or take a more measured approach. Provide constructive challenge and fresh thinking, helping us spot potential risks early, ask the right questions and make confident decisions that support the long-term success of the business. Ensure the Board continues to foster a strong working relationship with Riverford’s two other governance bodies, the Trustees and the co-owner Council. Chair the Remuneration Committee What we are looking for… Proven experience as a Non-Executive Director in a similar-sized business and/or in a related industry Former CEO or CFO or equivalent commercial finance experience, with the ability to contribute well at Board level. Experience of supporting a business through growth and scaling, ideally from around £100m to £250m turnover. Experience of entering new markets, developing new routes to market, or supporting major investment programmes would be a real advantage. Comfortable backing ambitious growth plans while bringing balanced judgement rather than excessive caution. Board-level experience in retail. Experience in manufacturing and/or multi-site operations would be a real plus. Experience supporting store rollouts, network expansion or significant automation investment programmes would be advantageous. Strong interpersonal skills, low ego, high EQ; a great communicator, who can challenge and encourage us to take risks through infectious bravery. Well-connected, with the ability to bring relevant external perspectives, contacts and opportunities that can benefit Riverford Terms of appointment… Circa 20 days a year Initial 3-year term, with a possible second term Start date according to candidate availability. Ideally Q1 2027 Fee £35,198 per year. Up to 6 Board meetings per year and other ad hoc meetings between Board meetings. 3 Remuneration committee meetings per year (mix of in person and virtual). Board meetings held in person, usually at Wash Farm, Devon. Occasionally these are held at our other site locations Application Process: We’re reviewing applications on a rolling basis and may close the advert early, so we encourage you to apply soon AI & Recruitment at Riverford - AI can be helpful for checking spelling, organising your thoughts or communicating clearly. If you use it, please keep your CV and application honest, accurate and true to you—we want to get to know the real you. As part of our recruitment process, AI helps compare CVs with the job criteria, but it never makes hiring decisions
Non Executive Director employer: Riverford Organic Farmers
At Riverford, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment in Poole. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our hands-on management style, where you will lead a dedicated team of drivers, fostering strong relationships and ensuring high standards of service. With a focus on work-life balance and the provision of an electric company car, we strive to create a fulfilling workplace that values both personal and professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Non Executive Director
✨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 Riverford Organic Farmers often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
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 Riverford Organic Farmers does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Riverford Organic Farmers
✨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 Riverford Organic Farmers 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 Riverford Organic Farmers.
✨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 Riverford Organic Farmers.
