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Swindon

Head of Farming for Nature

National Trust
Sustainability/Environmental Consulting
Sustainability/Environmental Consulting
£67,236.0/Year
Job
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Description

Location
Swindon, with flexibility on contractual place of work. Hybrid working policy allowing a balance of office, home working, site visits and meetings at National Trust places. Expect to be at a National Trust site for 40–60% of your working week.

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£67,236 per annum

About the Role
We are seeking a Head of ‘Farming for Nature’ to provide national leadership and shape the National Trust’s long-term approach to farming across both tenanted and in-hand land. The next decade is critical in addressing the nature and climate crisis, reshaping the food system, and securing rural economies. At the National Trust, we believe farming can play a vital role in supporting nature, responding to the climate crisis, and sustaining people and places alongside food production. This senior role offers the opportunity to drive change at scale by embedding regenerative and nature-friendly farming practices that deliver measurable benefits for biodiversity, climate resilience, and cultural landscapes.

You will be part of the Land & Nature directorate, a nationally focused team responsible for shaping how we deliver for nature, climate, and people across land, farming, and landscapes. The work is strategic, collaborative, and grounded in practical delivery, bringing together expertise from conservation, land management, science, policy, and external affairs. The team works closely with regional colleagues, tenant farmers, and partners to set direction, develop standards, and support change at scale. There is a strong focus on evidence-led decision-making, shared learning, and working across disciplines to achieve lasting outcomes.

You will be trusted to lead with clarity and purpose, working in a supportive environment that values collaboration, openness, and constructive challenge in pursuit of our long-term ambitions. This role offers the chance to make a lasting impact through collaborative leadership, practical outcomes, and influencing beyond organisational boundaries.

Requirements

Experience
- Significant post-qualification practical experience in farming systems and sustainable farm business management
- Extensive knowledge of external issues, legislation, policy, and guidance relating to farming, nature, and climate
- Broad knowledge and significant experience of applying conservation principles within agricultural and heritage settings
- Strong communication skills including presenting to external audiences, engaging with media, and producing clear written reports and presentations
- Strong influencing and advocacy skills with the ability to explain benefits, build consensus, and support changes in practice
- High standard of consultancy skills including listening, building trust, and delivering a high-quality service
- Ability to analyse complex issues holistically and apply sound professional judgement
- Experience building effective relationships with external partners, internal stakeholders, and local communities

About you
You are motivated by collaborative leadership and practical outcomes, with the ability to influence beyond organisational boundaries. You lead with clarity and purpose, thrive in a supportive and open environment, and are committed to achieving lasting positive impact for nature, climate, and rural communities.

Qualifications
A relevant degree (for example in agriculture) or equivalent achievement is required.

Expiry date: 24/05/2026
Head of Farming for Nature
Company:
National Trust
Salary:
£67,236.0
Job Type:
Job
Location:
Swindon