Policy Lead - UK Livestock Trade Association

Are you an Agricultural policy professional looking for an exciting opportunity to champion the needs of British Farmers?

A UK Livestock Trade Association is seeking an experienced policy advisor to head up policy lobbying and strategy to ensure the voices of British farmers are heard where it matters most.

This newly created role offers the opportunity to influence agricultural policy, represent farmers' interests at national level, and help drive the strategic direction of a respected organisation involved in the dairy sector, during a period of high investment, growth and sector-wide change.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement policy strategies that reflect the needs of the UK dairy sector.

• Engage with government departments, industry bodies, and regulators on behalf of members.

• Lead the creation of concise, well-informed policy responses and position papers.

• Represent the organisation at meetings, events, and within working groups.

• Establish and lead a member policy forum to gather grassroots input.

• Monitor legislative developments and brief stakeholders accordingly.

• Work collaboratively across teams to communicate policy work clearly and effectively.

• Provide updates and commentary through digital channels and member newsletters.

• Mentor junior team members in Policy Advising where applicable.

Experience & Skills

• Minimum 3 years' experience in policy, advocacy, or public affairs, ideally within agriculture.

• Proven ability to engage with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and diverse stakeholders.

• Strong knowledge of agricultural regulatory frameworks.

• Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Confident drafting clear, concise policy documents under tight deadlines.

• Highly organised with a proactive, 'can do' approach and ability to manage shifting priorities.

• Collaborative team player with a reputation for professionalism.

• Comfortable responding promptly to urgent requests from media, Council, or partners.

• Willingness to travel within the UK, including occasional overnight stays.

• Experience representing trade associations or advising businesses is desirable.

• Charity, non-profit, or membership organisation experience is a plus.

• Established network in rural and agricultural policy circles is beneficial.

• Experience managing others is an advantage.

Requirements:

• A relevant degree in Public Policy, Agriculture, Politics, or a related field.

• Minimum 3 years' experience in policy, advocacy, or public affairs.

• Strong working knowledge of the UK agricultural or environmental policy landscape.

• Experience working with government agencies and regulators.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong organisational ability, with experience handling changing priorities and tight deadlines.

• A full UK driving licence.

• Experience in a charity, membership organisation, or trade association (desirable).

• Previous line management experience (desirable).

• Experience in the dairy sector is not essential but would be advantageous.

Remuneration:

• Circa £40,000+, depending on experience

• Additional benefits package

• Flexible/agile working options

• Support for ongoing professional development

• Permanent, full-time role based in Stratford-upon-Avon

Closing Date: 16th June 2025

Whether you come from a genetics background or bring broader experience in livestock or on-farm sales, if you're driven, commercially sharp, and committed to supporting the future of dairy farming, we want to hear from you.

For more information and an informal confidential discussion please call Rupert Kettle on: / or e-mail your CV (in word format) and covering letter to , thank you.

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Please note that this advertisement is not a job description and you should satisfy yourself about the full details at interview.

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