Company Description
The British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) is the voice of the UK’s meat processing industry; a vital sector feeding millions at home and abroad. It represents a diverse membership, from global food companies to family-owned businesses, united by a commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Find us at www.britishmeatindustry.org
Salary: 6 figure on application | Private Healthcare
Applications Close: 14 November 2025
This vacancy may close without notice.
BMPA is now seeking an inspiring and influential Chief Executive Officer to lead the Association into its next chapter. They are looking for someone who will help shape national policy, champion their members’ interests, and drive positive change across the meat Industry.
About the Role
As CEO, you will be at the forefront of the BMPA’s mission: to influence and deliver the policy agendas that matter most to their members and the wider meat processing industry. Working closely with government, regulators and industry leaders, you will lead policy development and advocacy across their four strategic pillars:
* Trade – securing fair and competitive market access for UK meat processors at home and abroad.
* Technical & Regulatory – influencing science-based regulation and maintaining the UK’s reputation for food safety and animal welfare.
* Workforce – championing the skills, education, and immigration policies needed to sustain a thriving, modern workforce.
* Sustainability – driving fair, evidence-led approaches to environmental performance and supply chain resilience.
Reporting to the BMPA Council / Board of Directors you will combine strategic vision with operational excellence, inspiring the BMPA team, engaging members, and ensuring the Association delivers tangible value and impact.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and execute a forward-looking strategy that strengthens BMPA’s influence and policy impact across all four pillars.
* Represent the BMPA as its principal voice with government (including Defra, BEIS, Home Office, devolved administrations), regulators (FSA), media, and industry forums.
* Build and maintain trusted relationships with policymakers, agencies, and allied organisations including international trade bodies. Regular UK and occasional international travel will be required.
* Provide thought leadership on major issues shaping the future of food, trade, and sustainability.
* Lead and motivate the BMPA team to deliver exceptional member services, advocacy, guidance and communications.
* Oversee the Association’s governance, operations, and financial health with transparency and accountability.
About You
You are a persuasive and visionary leader with a proven record of driving policy agendas and representing complex industries at the highest level. You thrive in influencing public debate and forging partnerships that deliver practical outcomes.
Essential experience includes:
* Senior leadership within a membership body, trade association, or relevant policy environment.
* Deep understanding of UK and international agri-food or manufacturing policy frameworks.
* Demonstrable success in influencing government and regulatory decision-making.
* Ability to build consensus across a diverse membership.
* Strong media presence and communication skills.
* Financial and organisational acumen with the ability to lead a small team.
Experience within the meat, food processing, or broader agri-food sector would be highly advantageous, as would a strong network across UK and devolved governments.
Why Join BMPA
This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected, influential organisation at the centre of the UK food sector. You’ll have the platform to shape policy, influence change, and champion a vital industry that underpins the nation’s food security and rural economy.
Applications
Given the close and interconnected nature of the meat processing and wider food sector, all applications will be handled in the strictest confidence by an independent third party. Your initial interest in this position will not be shared with the BMPA without your prior consent.
To apply, please submit the following:
* A CV outlining your relevant experience and achievements.
* A covering letter explaining your interest in the role and how you meet the key requirements.