Director General

NFU; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Farmers Union (NFU) seeks a visionary Director General to lead the organization through significant changes in the agricultural sector. This pivotal role involves strategic leadership, guiding policy positions, and representing the NFU's values. Ideal candidates will possess a deep understanding of agriculture, strong leadership capabilities, and outstanding communication skills.

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of the agricultural sector.
• Track record of strategic leadership in complex environments.
• Strong commercial and financial oversight capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the NFU through industry challenges and opportunities.
• Set a strategic direction for the organization.
• Ensure policy positions are evidence-led and member-informed.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Outstanding communication

Political acumen

Commercial oversight

Inclusive leadership

Job description

The National Farmers Union (NFU) is the most influential voice in British agriculture, representing over 44,000 farming and growing businesses across England and Wales. As a force for change and a champion for the sector, the NFU shapes national policy, strengthens rural communities, and promotes the vital role of sustainable food production.

We are now seeking a visionary and values-driven leader to become our next Director General. You’ll lead with integrity and purpose, consistently role-modelling the NFU values of unity, professionalism, inclusivity and resourcefulness in all you do.

This is a pivotal role at the heart of a changing and high-profile industry. As Director General, you will lead the NFU through a time of significant challenge and opportunity, ranging from the transition to post-subsidy agriculture and environmental land management schemes to food security, global trade, and evolving consumer expectations. You will guide the organisation with clarity, credibility, and conviction, strengthening our position as the trusted and authoritative voice of British farming.

Working in close partnership with our elected Officeholders and NFU Council, and leading a talented executive team, you will set a bold strategic direction for the Union. You’ll ensure our policy positions remain evidence-led and member-informed, and that our voice is heard at the highest levels of government, business and the media.

You are likely to bring:

Deep understanding of the agricultural sector, either directly or through adjacent experience in the wider food supply chain. A track record of strategic leadership in complex, high-stakes environments. Outstanding communication and influencing skills, with the political acumen to build credibility across government and industry. Strong commercial and financial oversight capabilities, with a flair for driving innovation and ensuring long-term organisational sustainability. A collaborative, inclusive leadership style and the personal integrity to represent the NFU’s values and mission with authenticity. This is a unique opportunity to lead one of the UK’s most respected membership organisations, and to shape the future of food, farming, and the countryside.

Location: This role is based at NFU's Stoneleigh office, with regular travel required to Westminster and other locations across England and Wales.

The NFU has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and additional details on qualifications, requirements, terms and conditions of service and how to apply, please visit: www.rraresponses.com. The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Sunday 7^th September 2025.

The NFU is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds and sectors.