At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide consultancy services to farmers and promote SAC's offerings in the local community.
- Company: Join SAC Consulting, a leading agricultural consultancy dedicated to sustainable farming in Scotland.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and tailored learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in agriculture while building strong community relationships.
- Qualifications: HND or degree in relevant fields; agricultural experience is a plus.
- Other info: This role requires a full driving licence and is not eligible for sponsorship.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
SAC Consulting is one of the leading agricultural consultancies in Scotland, uniquely placed to support the sustainable growth and prosperity of agriculture and land-based businesses; working across food supply chains as they rise to the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss and food security.
Our Agricultural Advisory business believes in being local which is why we have 85 consultants and a further 35 technicians and administrators in 23 offices across Scotland, and more in Northern England, providing local knowledge and farming expertise to 9,000 farmers and crofters. The SAC Consulting Solutions Group provides an unrivalled level of consultancy service to farmers, crofters and the wider rural sector throughout Scotland.
SAC Consulting is part of SRUC (Scotland's Rural College) - a specialist higher education institution delivering tertiary education, research and consultancy.
This Agricultural Consultant role is suited to those interested in agriculture in the Caithness and Sutherland area. The ability to understand the challenges faced by agricultural businesses will be an advantage.
In this role you will:
- provide technical and financial consultancy services to farmers, crofters and other local rural businesses.
- promote, market and sell SAC services which will be serviced by the consultant, other local staff and specialist colleagues.
- assist with the delivery and promotion of the Farm Advisory Service.
- represent SAC Consulting and SRUC professionally at meetings, events and farming groups.
- build strong relationships with the farming and local community, suppliers and industry bodies.
To be considered for this role, candidates should possess an HND or degree in a relevant discipline. Whilst an agricultural qualification is desirable you may have a qualification within an area of business, finance or land-based sectors and, equally, your qualification could be in a transferable area such as teaching but backed up by your crofting/farming experience.
FBAASS, FACTS or BASIS qualifications would be desirable.
You should possess practical experience of Scottish agriculture (including beef/ sheep farming) with a knowledge of agricultural production systems, livestock farming systems and farm business management. An understanding of crofting, knowledge of CAP support systems (e.g. Single Application Forms & Greening) and arable Farming would be advantageous.
A full driving licence and access to a suitable vehicle is essential for this role.
This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route. If you are a migrant worker you will need to ensure you have an appropriate visa to evidence the necessary right to work in the UK.
Why work for SRUC?
- Generous annual leave
- Enhanced pension contributions
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted RAC Membership
- Generous family leave
- Flexible working patterns
- Hybrid working solutions (in some areas)
- Tailored investment in individuals' learning and development
Please complete an online application form by pressing “apply”. Please read the Job Particulars document before applying.
SRUC is committed to valuing Diversity, advancing Equality and respecting Human Rights throughout the organisation and encouraging applications from disabled people using the “Disability Confident Employer” symbol. SRUC is a member of the Athena SWAN charter.
SRUC. A Charitable company limited by guarantee, SC003712. Registered in Scotland No SC103046.
Agricultural Consultant in Thurso employer: Scotland's Rural College (SRUC)
Contact Detail:
Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Agricultural Consultant in Thurso
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local agricultural landscape in Caithness and Sutherland. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities faced by farmers in this area will help you engage more effectively during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with local farmers and agricultural professionals before applying. Attend local farming events or workshops to build relationships and gain insights into the community, which can be invaluable when discussing your potential contributions to SAC Consulting.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current agricultural policies and practices, especially those related to CAP support systems. Being knowledgeable about these topics will not only enhance your credibility but also show your proactive approach to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your practical experience in Scottish agriculture, particularly in beef and sheep farming. Highlight specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past, as this will resonate well with the interviewers at SAC Consulting.
We think you need these skills to ace Agricultural Consultant in Thurso
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Agricultural Consultant position. Familiarise yourself with SAC Consulting's mission and how they support local agriculture.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in agriculture, particularly in Scottish farming practices. Emphasise any qualifications or practical experience that align with the job description, such as knowledge of livestock systems or CAP support.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for agriculture and your understanding of the challenges faced by local farmers. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to provide consultancy services and build relationships within the community.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you complete the online application form as instructed. Double-check that you have read the Job Particulars document and included all necessary information and documents before submitting your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scotland's Rural College (SRUC)
✨Know Your Local Agriculture
Familiarise yourself with the specific agricultural practices and challenges in the Caithness and Sutherland area. Being able to discuss local issues and demonstrate your understanding of the community will show your commitment and relevance to the role.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your practical experience in Scottish agriculture, particularly in beef and sheep farming. Share specific examples of how your background aligns with the consultancy services you will be providing.
✨Demonstrate Relationship-Building Skills
Since building strong relationships with farmers and local businesses is key, think of examples where you've successfully established connections in previous roles. This will illustrate your ability to engage with the community effectively.
✨Showcase Your Qualifications
While an agricultural qualification is desirable, emphasise any relevant qualifications you have, such as business or finance. Be ready to explain how these can contribute to your success in the role, especially in promoting and marketing SAC services.