In order to complement and balance the existing range of skills and expertise on the Livestock Board, the NFU is looking to appoint farmer members as appointees to the national livestock board.
Who can apply?
Applicants should be active beef or sheep producers with a good understanding of the sectors, be forward thinking and have strong communication skills.
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.
In particular, we're after candidates with experience in the following areas:
- Cattle finishing
- Livestock processing
- Marketing
- Haulage
Additional skills or an interest in animal health, climate change mitigation, livestock productivity and data systems would be favourable. Finally, we would like to consider individuals with an interest in farm assurance that would be willing to represent the NFU on advisory committees.
What does the role involve?
Successful candidates are appointed for one year and will be expected to attend six meetings, typically at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire or our London office. Attendance at other supply chain, government or NFU meetings as a representative of the board will be required from time to time.
In return you will receive an honorarium, paid monthly, and reimbursement of reasonable expenses.
If successful, the first board meeting you would be required to attend is on Tuesday, 23 May 2023.
Key priorities for the board
UK beef and sheep producers continue to face unprecedented challenges from the rise in farm inputs and the extraordinary grocery inflationary that is being felt by households across the country.
The loss of BPS and uncertainty over the delivery of the new agriculture support policy mean that the sector is facing into a period of significant change. The supply chain is particularly focussed on climate change, sustainability and is developing metrics that we can stand behind.
As a result of this, key priorities going forward will include:
- A call for clear, long-term market signals to allow UK producers to respond and adapt as consumers continue to demand high standards of traceability, food safety, and animal welfare alongside high levels of environmental delivery.
- Maintaining our world leading standards – this will be critical if we are to secure support from our domestic market and to seriously take advantage of a wider range of export markets.
- A fair and transparent supply chain that ensures all within that the chain remains profitable.
- Above all, food security must not be taken for granted.
Apply now
Interested members should contact the NFU's Chief Livestock Adviser, John Royle by emailing [email protected] 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.
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, 7 April 2023 and candidates may be invited to an interview with the selection panel.
Interviews will take place starting from 24 April 2023 in Stoneleigh.
