NFU Graduate - Communications & External Affairs

NFU - Nederlandse Federatie van Universitair Medische Centra; Kenilworth; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural organization in the UK is offering a graduate programme focused on communications and external affairs. The role will be split between placements in Warwickshire and London, exposing candidates to political lobbying, public campaigning, and event management. Applicants should possess at least a 2:1 degree and strong communication skills. This two-year fixed-term role starts in September 2026 and offers a competitive salary with various benefits including health plans and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Company-funded health cashplan

Flexible working environment

Performance-related pay

Access to interest-free loans

Qualifications

• Strong desire to represent and campaign on behalf of NFU members.
• Ability to contribute in communications or external affairs.
• Flexibility to work in both Warwickshire and London.

Responsibilities

• Engage in political lobbying and public campaigning.
• Manage national media and events.
• Participate in multi-channel communications.

Skills

Problem-solving

Planning

Communication

Education

At least a 2:1 degree or equivalent

Job description

Salary

£28,000 per annum | £2,000 Relocation support to assist with relocation costs between placements.

Location

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

Working Hours

35 hours per week.

Contract

2-year fixed term commencing September 2026

About the Role

Do you have a passion to work in the fast-paced world of Communications and External affairs? This graduate programme offers exposure to political lobbying, public campaigning, national media management, event management and multi-channel communications within the NFU, UK’s largest farming organisation.

What you’ll bring

You will have or be predicted to have at least a 2:1 degree, or an equivalent industry-related qualification, along with strong problem-solving, planning, and communication skills. A drive to represent and campaign on behalf of NFU members and a desire to further your career in communications or external affairs is essential.

Placements

This role will be based in Warwickshire and Westminster, requiring a flexible approach to location. The 2‑year programme is split into two 12‑month placements: the first across Communications, Media, Digital and Campaigns and Events teams in Warwickshire, the second in External Affairs in London.

Benefits

• Generous holiday allowance (starting at 25 days a year + Bank Holidays) and an annual Christmas company day
• Company‑funded health cashplan benefit (dental, optical, physiotherapy, 24/7 private GP)
• 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 Programme
• Discounts on vehicles, holiday rentals, wellbeing and lifestyle products
• Excellent Health and Wellbeing Programme
• Flexible, friendly and supportive working environment with a modern office, on‑site restaurant and free parking

Eligibility

The successful candidate must, by the start of their employment, have permission to work in the UK.

Application Process

Closing Date for Application: 11 January 2026
Virtual Selection Process: January – March 2026
Face‑to‑face Interviews: April 2026
Start Date: September 2026

Please also check out our Agriculture Policy and NFU Cymru Graduate Programmes.

REF-(Apply online only)