Director and CEO

CHEManager International; Hatching Green; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural research institute in the UK is seeking a Director & Chief Executive to guide the organization through strategic renewal. The successful candidate will possess a strong scientific reputation and significant strategic leadership experience. This role offers a unique opportunity to impact agricultural science on a global scale. Applications close on December 1st, 2025.

Qualifications

• Strong scientific reputation and proven track record of strategic leadership.
• Experience of securing funding and building partnerships.
• Deep commitment to Rothamsted's mission and values.

Responsibilities

• Lead the organisation through a period of strategic renewal.
• Unite and energise the organisation.
• Shape the future of UK agricultural science.

Job description

About Rothamsted Research

Rothamsted Research (RRes) is the UK’s longest-standing agricultural research institute and a global leader in strategic agricultural science. With a legacy dating back to 1843, RRes has pioneered innovations in crop science, soil health, and sustainable farming systems. Today, it continues to deliver world‑class research that addresses urgent challenges in food production and security, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.

RRes has its main 330‑ha campus at Harpenden, around 350‑ha at a second site in Devon, and two smaller areas of farmland. The institute is home to internationally significant resources including the Long‑Term Experiments, the Rothamsted Insect Survey, and the North Wyke Farm Platform. The outstanding facilities support scientists working on transformative research—from soil health and crop genetics to data‑driven farming systems—making real‑world impact on farm practices, land management and government policy.

Director & Chief Executive position

RRes is now seeking to appoint a new Director & Chief Executive to lead the organisation through a period of strategic renewal. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Director & CEO will be a visionary and inspiring leader with a strong scientific reputation and a proven track record of strategic leadership in complex, science‑driven organisations.

You will bring credibility across the research and innovation landscape, commercial acumen, and the ability to unite and energise the organisation. Experience of securing funding, building partnerships, and navigating a complex external funding environment will be essential, as will a deep commitment to Rothamsted’s mission and values.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of UK agricultural science and deliver lasting global impact.

For further information, including details of how to apply, please visit https://www.odgers.com/94902 or contact [e-mail].

Applications are invited at your earliest convenience, and in any event by no later than close of business on Monday 1st December 2025.

Job Details

• Seniority level: Executive
• Employment type: Full‑time
• Job function: Other
• Industry: Newspaper Publishing