Regional Trials Centre Manager
Posted 6 hours 27 minutes ago by NIAB
From £31,148 + overtime
Permanent, full-time
Callow, Hereford, HR2 8DA
ABOUT THE JOB
Are you ready to take your agricultural career to the next level? We are looking for a committed and driven Regional Trials Centre Manager to lead operations at our Hereford Regional Centre. In this role, you will manage field crop trials and deliver high-quality results in a commercial farming environment, focusing on cereals, oilseed rape, pulses, and forage crops.
This opportunity is ideal for individuals of all backgrounds who are passionate about advancing agricultural innovation and want to play a vital role in shaping the future of farming.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead and manage field trials and demonstration plots across various crop species.
• Plan and execute trials, including site selection, seed preparation, drilling, spraying, harvesting, and processing.
• Oversee day-to-day operations at the centre, including budgets, staff performance, and resource allocation.
• Developing and maintaining a good working collaboration with the Centre host/farm is also fundamental to the role.
• Conduct plant and crop assessments, collate trial data, and ensure timely delivery of results.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with host growers, customers, and internal stakeholders.
• Collaborate with other regional centres to support the national trials programme.
• Ensure equipment and facilities are well-maintained, adhering to health and safety policies.
Working Conditions:
• A mix of office and fieldwork, requiring flexibility and resilience to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Physically demanding tasks, including manual handling of items up to 25kg, such as seed bags and sprayers.
• Periods of lone working and additional hours during peak seasons are expected.
ABOUT YOU
You will have:
• Knowledge of arable production systems and field trials procedures.
• Skills in drilling, spraying, and harvesting.
• Experience managing field crop trials and a team.
• Pesticide application certifications (PA1, PA6) and strong IT proficiency (Microsoft Office 365).
• Excellent organisational and leadership skills, with the ability to work under pressure.
A full UK driving licence is essential. Travel to other trial sites in the region and occasionally to other UK centres is required. Transport can be provided from the Hereford office to various sites.
Desirable Qualifications and Skills:
• A degree in agriculture or a related field.
• BASIS, FACTS, or other professional certifications.
• Experience operating agricultural equipment (PA2, Forklift/Telehandler).
ABOUT US
Niab is the UK's leading crop science organisation, renowned for its expertise in plant genetics, agronomy, farming systems, and data science. We operate the largest field trials capability in the country, supported by strong partnerships with industry, government, and academia.
Our West Regional trials team plays a pivotal role, managing over 20,000 plots across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Gloucestershire, and Wales. Combining local knowledge, technical expertise, and teamwork, we deliver innovative research and insights that drive agricultural innovation and sustainability.
WHY JOIN US
When you join Niab, you become part of a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive environment that values diversity and empowers everyone to succeed. With over 400 dedicated staff nationwide, we provide opportunities for professional growth and a chance to make a meaningful impact in the future of agriculture.
We offer a competitive salary, paid overtime during peak seasons, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
• 25 days' holiday, plus public holidays and 3 extra days over Christmas.
• Generous pension scheme and sick pay.
• Life assurance, income protection, and employee discounts.
As a Disability Confident Employer, we are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of society.
TO APPLY
For further details and to apply, please visit our website via the 'Apply' button.
Closing date: 16 February 2025.
Interview date: 27 February 2025 at our offices in Callow, Hereford.
We actively encourage applications from people of all genders and diverse backgrounds to ensure our team reflects the world we serve.
Please note that following changes to Immigration Law in April 2024, this role does not qualify for a Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Candidates with independently held immigration permission would be considered