Future Farm Director (FF-2025)

Harper Adams University; Edgmond Marsh; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent agricultural university in the UK is seeking a Future Farm Director to oversee strategic direction and commercial performance. The ideal candidate will manage complex farming operations, engage with policymakers, and promote sustainable agriculture. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of agriculture while ensuring profitability. Candidates must demonstrate visionary leadership and experience in grant income development.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to manage complex farming operations.
• Experience working with Defra and agricultural funding schemes.
• Strong understanding of applied research in agriculture.

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic direction and commercial performance of the Future Farm.
• Engage with policymakers and stakeholders to influence agricultural policy.
• Oversee day-to-day farming activities and ensure sustainability.

Skills

Visionary leadership

Commercial acumen

Understanding of sustainable agriculture

Grant income development

Collaboration

Resilience

Job description

Overview

zero ambitions, and ensure that the farm continues to deliver on its three key priorities of commercial success, research excellence and teaching support. The influence of this role extends far beyond the farm itself. The Director will engage with policymakers, lead relationships with Defra, secure funding through grants and partnerships, and represent Harper Adams on national and international stages. They will ensure the Future Farm is central to the University's 2030 vision and plays a pivotal role in shaping the next era of UK and global agriculture. This is a role that combines the scale and challenge of running a significant commercial farming operation with the opportunity to influence research, education and policy. It offers the unique chance to manage day-to-day farming activity while also shaping the long-term direction of the sector.

The Candidate

The successful candidate will be a visionary and commercially astute leader with a proven, ability to manage complex farming operations and inspire people, They will bring strategic insight, commercial acumen and a strong understanding of sustainable agriculture. They will be credible across the industry, able to inspire colleagues, students, stakeholders and policymakers alike. Attention to detail, resilience and pragmatism will be essential, as will the ability to balance the competing priorities of commercial farming, applied research and higher education. Experience of working with Defra, developing grant income and operating within complex organisations will be valuable. Knowledge of agricultural funding schemes and applied research will be an advantage. Above all, the successful candidate will demonstrate collaborative leadership, adaptability and the motivation to leave a legacy in UK and international agriculture.

Application Process

For a confidential discussion and further details, candidates should contact Darren Houghton at Korn Ferry:Tel: [phone] Email:Harper Adams agriculture. Its ambitious 2030 strategy is aligned with the University's broader vision, aiming to demonstrate that sustainable farming can be commercially viable. Across every enterprise, pioneering targets have been set to cut carbon emissions by 25 percent while driving efficiency and profitability. The farm's integrated approach allows bold thinking to be tested in practice, ensuring it continues to lead in innovation and influence across the farming sector.

The Opportunity

The role of Future Farm Director is a rare and career-defining leadership opportunity. The Director will take responsibility for the strategic direction, commercial performance and sector influence of one of the most advanced university farms in the UK.The appointee will be expected to demonstrate that profitability and sustainability can work hand in hand, making the Future Farm a beacon for the industry both nationally and internationally. They will oversee a highly skilled team, drive forward Harper Adams' net