The NFU is looking for 3 livestock farmer members to join its national Livestock Board as appointee members to complement and add to the range of existing skills and expertise on the board.
At this pivotal time for the industry, we are looking for active beef or sheep producers with a strong understanding of the sectors, with a forward thinking approach and strong communication skills.
The deadline for applications is Friday 24 April 2026. Find more details on applying.
What to expect
Appointee members serve two-year terms and will be expected to attend six meetings a year, typically at NFU HQ in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, at our London office, or occasionally virtually or at an external location.
Attendance at other supply chain, government or NFU meetings as a representative of the board will be required from time to time.
Board agendas are wide ranging and potential applicants must demonstrate a sound understanding of the policy and trade issues affecting the livestock industry, as well as a willingness to connect with the wider NFU membership.
Appointee members receive an honorarium, paid monthly, and reasonable expenses are reimbursed. Appointees are given a full induction and offered development and learning opportunities.
Experience and understanding
Successful candidates will have:
- Active experience of beef or sheep production.
- Knowledge and understanding of the wider supply chain, including insights into retail, processing and/or consumer behaviour and marketing.
- An interest in developing trade, animal health and welfare, environmental and farm business policy.
- Interest in working with the wider Livestock Board on a strategy to improve business performance, business resilience and better promote UK beef and lamb.
- In line with the NFU’s value of inclusivity, we are interested in applicants from different backgrounds and perspectives, especially those who feel they have been, so far, underrepresented in the agricultural sector
- We are also interested in applicants who have specific knowledge of, or an interest in, advocating for organic, tenancy and/or environmental issues.
Apply now
Interested members should contact the NFU's livestock team with an up-to-date CV setting out your experience, skills and interests, along with a personal statement on what you would bring to the board. Emails should be sent to:
- NFU Chief Livestock Adviser John Royle: [email protected], and
- NFU Livestock Adviser Phoebe Traquair: [email protected]
You should clearly mark any correspondence, including your application with the word ‘Livestock Appointee’ in the subject line.
Closing date
The closing date for all applications is Friday 24 April and candidates may be invited to an interview with the selection panel.
Interviews will take place on 7 and 8 May at NFU HQ, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. If successful, the first board meeting you would be required to attend is on Thursday 21 May 2026.
