NFU Graduate - Agricultural Policy

NFU; Stoneleigh; Hybrid; GBP 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading farming organization in the UK is seeking candidates for a graduate role commencing in September 2026. This opportunity involves working on diverse agricultural projects, solving complex problems, and engaging with various stakeholders. Candidates should hold or expect to obtain a 2:1 degree or equivalent and have a strong interest in food production and trade. The role offers a generous benefits package and a mix of office and agile working environments.

Benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Health cashplan benefit

Performance related pay

Flexible working environment

Access to interest-free loans

Qualifications

• Achieved or predicted a 2:1 or above degree.
• Interest in agricultural and horticultural industries.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Develop knowledge of agricultural issues and policies.
• Collaborate with teams across projects and stakeholders.
• Engage in a range of projects from research to policy delivery.

Skills

Interest in food production and trade

Problem-solving skills

Effective communication

Relationship building

Education

2:1 degree or equivalent

Job description

Salary : £28,000 per annum

Location :

HQ, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire with agile working (mix of office and home working).

Working Hours :

35 hours per week

Contract Type :

2-year fixed term contract, commencing September 2026

Do you want to work for an organisation that makes a lasting difference for farmers and the nation?

The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) is the largest and most influential farming organisation in the UK. We're proud to make a difference for all our members, by shaping attitudes towards British farming and leading the charge on a range of major issues, from climate change and food standards, agri-science to rural crime.

Purpose of the role and how you will contribute :

This is a fantastic opportunity to develop your knowledge of the agricultural and horticultural industries and the issues facing our members, helping you get your career off to a head start with this comprehensive, purpose-built programme.

It’s exciting, complex work, covering every area of farming and dealing with a range of stakeholders, from government ministers, civil servants and the media, to farmers at their local NFU branches. The sheer variety of our work means you can be involved in a wide range of projects from initial research to policy delivery. Our collaborative approach means you’ll find plenty of opportunities to build your knowledge, working on projects with teams across our Policy Directorate – it’s up to you to take them.

What you’ll bring :

You will have achieved, or be predicted to achieve, at least a 2 : 1 degree or above (or equivalent qualification).

Our staff have diverse backgrounds, and no specific degree is a pre-requisite for the role. You will learn a lot on the job, so we do not expect you to have a detailed knowledge of the agricultural sector or policy advocacy; however, we are looking for people who have an interest in the issues that shape food production, trade and markets, business and public / regulatory affairs. You’ll enjoy solving complex problems and working to achieve the best outcomes for our members who are at the heart of what we do. You will also need to be great at building strong relationships at all levels and be able to communicate your views effectively.

The successful candidates will need their own transport, as public transport is not frequently available to the NFU Headquarters based in Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.

Why choose us?

Join us and you’ll find an organisation that encourages and enables you to achieve your full potential. In return you will be rewarded with a full range of benefits including :

• Generous holiday allowance (starting at 25 days a year + Bank Holidays), plus 1 annual Christmas company day.
• Company funded health cashplan benefit to assist with everyday costs; dental, optical, physiotherapy and a private GP service 24 / 7 etc.
• Option to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental leave.
• Performance related pay.
• Competitive Pension and Life assurance.
• Access to interest-free loans for cars, bikes, season tickets and driving lessons.
• Employee Assistance Program to help you deal with life’s challenges.
• Discounts on a range of new vehicles, holiday rentals, wellbeing and lifestyle and many more.
• Excellent Health and Wellbeing Programme.
• Flexible, friendly and supportive working environment.
• Attractive, modern office, with on-site restaurant and free parking.

Join us

We’re committed to recruiting a diverse and highly-talented workforce. We’ll support you by providing you with extensive learning and development opportunities.

We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. We reserve the right to withdraw this advert before the closing date.

Application process (some dates may be subject to change) :

Closing date for applications – 11 January 2026

Written Assessment – 2 February – 15 February 2026

Interview (Microsoft Teams) – 16 March – 5 April 2026

Final Interview at our Headquarters – 1 – 31 May 2026

Start date – September 2026

Please also check out our Communications and External Affairs and NFU Cymru Graduate Programmes.

REF-(Apply online only)