Harper Adams University, Shropshire
About Harper Adams and the Future Farm
Harper Adams University is recognised as the UKs leading specialist institution for food production, animal wellbeing and land management. It has an international reputation for excellence in teaching, research and industry engagement and is consistently ranked as one of the UKs top modern universities. Its mission is to address the global challenges of food security, climate change and animal health while building sustainable farming systems for the future.
At the heart of this mission is the Universitys Future Farm, a 494-hectare commercial farming enterprise that combines cropping, dairy, beef, sheep, pigs and poultry. Future Farm is both a thriving business and a living laboratory, supporting world-class teaching and research. It is home to cutting-edge facilities, including a state-of-the-art robotic dairy, advanced pig research units and extensive arable operations focused on regenerative and sustainable practices.
Future Farm has become a national flagship for sustainable agriculture. Its ambitious 2030 strategy is aligned with the Universitys broader vision, aiming to demonstrate that sustainable farming can be commercially viable. Across every enterprise, pioneering targets have been set to cut carbon emissions by 25 percent while driving efficiency and profitability. The farms integrated approach allows bold thinking to be tested in practice, ensuring it continues to lead in innovation and influence across the farming sector.
The Opportunity
The role of Future Farm Director is a rare and career-defining leadership opportunity. The Director will take responsibility for the strategic direction, commercial performance and sector influence of one of the most advanced university farms in the UK.
The appointee will be expected to demonstrate that profitability and sustainability can work hand in hand, making the Future Farm a beacon for the industry both nationally and internationally. They will oversee a highly skilled team, drive forward Harper Adams net zero ambitions, and ensure that the farm continues to deliver on its three key priorities of commercial success, research excellence and teaching support.
The influence of this role extends far beyond the farm itself. The Director will engage with policymakers, lead relationships with Defra, secure funding through grants and partnerships, and represent Harper Adams on national and international stages. They will ensure the Future Farm is central to the Universitys 2030 vision and plays a pivotal role in shaping the next era of UK and global agriculture.
This is a role that combines the scale and challenge of running a significant commercial farming operation with the opportunity to influence research, education and policy. It offers the unique chance to manage day-to-day farming activity while also shaping the long-term direction of the sector.
The Candidate
The successful candidate will be a visionary and commercially astute leader with a proven ability to manage complex farming operations and inspire people. They will bring strategic insight, commercial acumen and a strong understanding of sustainable agriculture.
They will be credible across the industry, able to inspire colleagues, students, stakeholders and policymakers alike. Attention to detail, resilience and pragmatism will be essential, as will the ability to balance the competing priorities of commercial farming, applied research and higher education.
Experience of working with Defra, developing grant income and operating within complex organisations will be valuable. Knowledge of agricultural funding schemes and applied research will be an advantage. Above all, the successful candidate will demonstrate collaborative leadership, adaptability and the motivation to leave a lasting legacy in UK and international agriculture.
Application Process
For a confidential discussion and further details, candidates should contact Darren Houghton at Korn Ferry:
Tel:
Email:
Harper Adams University and Korn Ferry are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences.
This is one of the most distinctive leadership roles in UK agriculture. Few positions offer such a unique combination of scale, influence and impact. The successful candidate will not only lead a prestigious farm of national significance but will also have the opportunity to shape the future of sustainable farming on a global stage.
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