NIGTA Chief Executive Vacancy Notice

The Northern Ireland Grain Trade Association is proud to be the hub of Northern Ireland's agricultural supply trade industry, representing the interests of its traders, manufacturers, processors, distributors, brokers and service providers, since its inception in 1966.

An exciting opportunity has arisen to lead NIGTA as its new CEO, continuing the excellent standard of representation the body is known for and providing leadership and policy direction to address the future needs of the industry.

This is a unique and varied opportunity, which will utilise your strong stakeholder management skills, collaborating with the experienced team of industry specialists who form the NIGTA Executive, lobbying and influencing at the highest ministerial level and understanding and meeting the needs of member businesses.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Leadership

  • Develop and deliver NIGTA’s strategic plan in alignment with Board objectives.
  • Provide informed analysis of policy developments, and regulatory change.
  • Identify emerging risks and opportunities for the feed and fertiliser trade in Northern Ireland.
  • Ensure NIGTA remains financially sustainable and member-focused.

2. Representation and Advocacy

  • Represent NIGTA and its members in discussions with:
    • Northern Ireland Executive departments and agencies
    • UK Government departments
    • EU officials and representatives
    • Regulatory and standards bodies
    • Agri-food industry stakeholders
    • Other business trade associations
  • Lead lobbying and advocacy efforts on issues including trade, EU-Exit, regulation, biosecurity, sustainability, and supply chain resilience.
  • Act as the public face and spokesperson for the Association.

3. Member Engagement and Services

  • Build strong, trusted relationships with member companies.
  • Ensure members receive timely updates on regulatory, legislative, and market developments.
  • Facilitate working groups and committees to address technical and policy matters.
  • Support recruitment and retention of members.

4. Governance and Compliance

  • Report regularly to the Board on financial performance, risk, and strategy delivery.
  • Ensure compliance with governance, legal, and regulatory obligations.
  • Oversee policy development and internal controls.

5. Financial and Operational Management

  • Manage budgets, financial planning, and reporting.
  • Ensure efficient administration and effective communication systems.

 

REPORTING AND GOVERNANCE

The CEO reports to the Board of NIGTA and is accountable for delivering agreed strategic objectives and maintaining the Association’s reputation and effectiveness.

 

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential

  • Strong understanding of the agri-food landscape and regulatory environment.
  • Demonstrable experience in policy development, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Proven ability to influence at senior government and industry levels.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation and inter-personal skills.
  • Strategic thinker with commercial awareness.

Desirable

  • Leadership experience, ideally within the agri-food, agri-supply trade, or wider agricultural sector.
  • Experience working with membership organisations or trade associations.
  • Understanding of sustainability, supply chain assurance, and regulatory compliance frameworks within the agri-supply sector.

Personal Attributes

  • Credible and authoritative industry ambassador.
  • Politically astute and diplomatically skilled.
  • Collaborative and relationship-driven.
  • Resilient and adaptable in a dynamic policy environment.
  • High integrity and commitment to members’ interests.
  • Flexible approach to work and working hours and be able to travel to meet the needs of the role.

 

WHAT WE OFFER

  • A uniquely placed opportunity to expand your breadth and depth of knowledge of the NI Agri-sector and become a leading authority for the industry.
  • An experienced and supportive Executive Committee, with a wealth of senior expertise to draw upon.
  • A mature and resilient industry, which provides an exciting range of strategic policy areas and partnerships to influence and engage in.
  • A full-time permanent role with flexibility in relation to working hours and location.
  • Role compatibility for self-employed or freelance applicants.
  • A salary package commensurate with experience.

If you feel this role matches your attributes and aspirations and you are excited about the opportunity to shape the economic, environmental and regulatory roadmap for our industry, we welcome your application.

 

Applications may be made in the strictest confidence by submitting your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest and suitability for the role, to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by the closing date of 5.00pm on Friday 10th  April 2026.

 

We are an Equal Opportunities Association; all applications will be progressed on their merit.