Job Description
North East Farm Business Support Service delivered by Northumberland National Park Authority (NNPA) on behalf of the North East Combined Authority (NECA).
Post: Farm Networking Officer (Regional) - North East Farm Business Support Service Programme
Directorate: Park Management
Responsible to: North East Farm Business Support Service Manager
Grade: Band 5 £34,434 - £38,220 per annum
Term: Full time. Fixed Term Contract through to 31st March 2029.
Workbase: Based from our offices in Rothbury or Hexham including travel within the North East region. Hybrid work from home options also available.
Job Purpose
Working with the North East Farm Business Support Service team and other partners to identify networking and learning opportunities. Manage and deliver a programme of engagement, animation and knowledge transfer events across the region.
Key Result Areas
Strategy Development and Implementation
* Work collaboratively with the North East Farm Business Support Service team to deliver agreed project key performance indicators (KPIs).
* Maintain accurate and efficient records to support project reporting and funding claims.
* Design, coordinate and deliver a structured programme of farm business events and knowledge exchange activities.
* Monitor attendance, gather feedback and evaluate impact to inform continuous improvement.
Project Development and Implementation
* Develop and lead a programme of bespoke technical advice workshops with the Farming Business Support Service team.
* Coordinate all aspects of event delivery, including procuring speakers, venues, catering as well as working with NNPA communications team to publicise.
* Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records, including farm business pipelines and outcome monitoring data.
* Ensure that work and service provision is carried out in a manner which safeguards the health and safety of the workforce and the general public observing and applying H & S Policy and Practices. Report to the designated H & S representative accidents and dangerous occurrences.
Support and Advocacy
* Promote the programme at appropriate events, for instance at agricultural shows, local marts and meetings.
* Contribute to project and programme‑level monitoring and evaluation activities.
* Prepare reports and updates for the North East Farm Business Support Service Manager as required.
Partnership and Liaison
* Work effectively with colleagues and external partners to support programme delivery.
* Participate in programme working groups and relevant partnership meetings.
* Contribute to a positive team culture that promotes innovation, collaboration and open communication.
Other Duties
* Proactively support the promotion of equality and inclusion in all areas of work.
* Ensure that work and service provision is carried out in a manner which safeguards the health and safety of the workforce and the general public observing and applying Health & Safety Policy and Practices.
* Comply with General Protection Data Regulation (GDPR) and implement Memorandum of Understanding with key partners, as appropriate.
* Undertake any other duties consistent with the post as may be directed by the North East Farm Business Support Service manager.
Person Specification
Knowledge
* Understanding of the issues facing rural communities and businesses, specifically across the North East region.
* Knowledge of agricultural policy and environmental schemes.
* Knowledge of farm business resilience and innovation.
* Awareness of best practices for delivering engaging and practical farmer‑led events.
Skills
* Ability to design relevant, practical content that meets farmer needs.
* Excellent communication skills, to translate technical information into clear, practical messages.
* Confidence engaging with a wide range of audiences.
* Ability to absorb complex information quickly and to summarise key messages clearly and accurately.
* Strong organisational skills.
* Strong collaboration skills with both internal teams and external stakeholders.
* Confident in the use of information technology systems, the use of all Microsoft Office 365 applications and MS Teams.
Experience
* Experience of planning and coordinating workshops, networking and training events.
* Managing logistics such as venues, speakers and catering.
* Experience working directly with farmers or land managers.
* Experience/familiarity with key agricultural organisations.
* Liaison with partner organisations, external stakeholders and colleagues.
* Experience supporting event promotion.
Personal Qualities
* Proactive, enthusiastic and objective.
* Problem solving and adaptability.
* Methodical and tenacious approach.
* Ability to work a flexible pattern and travel to sites to fulfil the requirements of the post.
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