Director and CEO

Rothamsted Research; Hatching Green; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural research institute in the UK is seeking a new Director and CEO. The candidate will lead strategic renewal, report to the Board, and shape the future of agricultural science globally. A strong scientific reputation and proven strategic leadership in science-driven organizations are essential for this role. The position offers a significant opportunity to impact food production, climate resilience, and sustainability.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of strategic leadership in complex, science-driven organisations.
• Experience of securing funding and building partnerships.
• Ability to unite and energise the organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead RRes through a period of strategic renewal.
• Report to the Board of Trustees.
• Shape the future of UK agricultural science.

Job description

Director and CEO

Employer Rothamsted Research

Location Harpenden, Hertfordshire

Salary Competitive

Closing date Dec 1, 2025

Discipline Life Sciences, Agricultural Science

Position Type Full Time

Job Type Manager

Organization Type Non-Profit

Job Details

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.

Rothamsted has its main 330 Ha campus at Harpenden, around 350 Ha at a second site in Devon, and two smaller areas of farmland. RRes 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. It collaborates widely with academia, industry, and government, and is a key part of the UKRI‑BBSRC research ecosystem.

It now seeks to appoint a new Director & Chief Executive to lead RRes 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.

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