Agrifood Futures Director

Full-time, Fixed-term Contract (6 years)

The closing date for applications is 12:00 on 29th May 2026

Interviews will be held: 7th July 2026

By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website UK Visas and Immigration Website.

The University of Reading is internationally recognised for excellence in agriculture, food and environmental research. Ranked in the QS global top 20 for Agriculture and Forestry, Reading is now embarking on one of the most ambitious programmes in its history: Agrifood Futures.

Agrifood Futures is a bold, whole-systems research and innovation strategy that will transform the way we produce, consume and think about food as we move towards 2050. At its core are three interconnected Priority Research Areas, each shaped to deliver long-term, challenge-led programmes of research and innovation:

1. A resilient food system for everyone
2. Farming systems that work with nature and our climate
3. Food that nourishes people and the planet

These are underpinned by significant new investments including a state-of-the-art innovation farm, advanced food processing facilities, and a participatory platform for nutrition and consumer behaviour.

To deliver this vision, the University has established a world-class leadership team spanning academic and professional services expertise. The final and pivotal appointment is the Agrifood Futures Director.

This is a unique opportunity to provide strategic, transdisciplinary leadership for a programme of global significance. The Director will lead a high-performing team across the Priority Research Areas and Systems and Futures Hub, oversee the delivery of major infrastructure investments, and act as a prominent external voice, building influential partnerships across academia, industry and government. The role carries accountability for delivering the strategy at scale, including securing significant co-investment and driving research excellence and impact.

The successful candidate will:

• Bring an internationally credible track record of leadership in agrifood research, innovation, policy or industry
• Have a deep understanding of global food systems and experience of leading large-scale, collaborative programmes
• Demonstrate the ability to influence at the highest levels and to build partnerships that deliver transformative outcomes

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the University of Reading on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit roles.saxbam.com using reference IBVXA1. Alternatively email belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Friday 29th May.

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.

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