Land Use Policy Adviser (Agriculture)

Contract: Full time (35 hours), perm contract.
Salary: £41,000 – £50,000 depending on experience and level of skill
Location: London based (SW1X 8PQ) with the possibility to work remotely (from another CLA office or home) up to 2 days per week
Application deadline: 5pm, Monday 27th October
Interviews: 1st stage interviews will take place in person at our London office on Thursday 30th October. 2nd stage interviews are scheduled to take place in person at our London office on Thursday 6th November.

Are you passionate and knowledgeable about profitable and sustainable farming? Are you interested in influencing policy and believe change is possible? Do you enjoy working with other people and willing to learn?

The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) is a dynamic, forward thinking membership organisation for owners of land, property and rural businesses, who has been championing the interests of rural England and Wales for over 100 years. CLA members own or manage around half the rural land in England and Wales and more than 250 different types of businesses.

We are now looking for a Land Use Policy Adviser specialising in Agriculture to join our expert team in London. This role would suit someone who has experience advising farmers and knowledge of the wide range of issues facing farming businesses across the country.

Agriculture and environment policy in England continues to evolve. Climate change and an uncertain geopolitical context means that a resilient farming sector is more important than ever. This is a unique opportunity to influence national policy, support landowners and farmers, and help shape the future of the sector.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Develop and advocate CLA policy on agriculture issues, trade and food security.
• Provide expert advice to CLA members on the Sustainable Farming Incentives, productivity schemes, and issues relating to sustainable and profitable farming.
• Represent CLA members in meetings with government, industry, and stakeholders.
• Write policy briefings, consultation responses, and member guidance.
• Present at events, conferences, and agricultural shows across the country.

Please see the job description below for full details of the responsibilities, or contact Susan Twining, Chief Land Use Policy Adviser on [email protected].

What We’re Looking For

• Strong knowledge of agriculture sector and supply chains.
• Good understanding of policy on agriculture, land use, and related environmental policy.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• A collaborative mindset.
• A self-starter who can identify opportunities for making a difference, work without supervision and meet deadlines.
• A passion for rural affairs and sustainable and profitable farming.

Why Join Us?

At the CLA, we champion the interests of rural landowners and businesses. You’ll be part of a supportive, knowledgeable team working at the heart of rural policy. We offer:

• 25 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays) increasing to 30 days upon 3 years’ service.
• A collaborative and mission-driven culture.
• 10% employer pension contribution.
• Retail discounts, wellbeing support, healthcare cash plan and more.