Apply now to be the NSA Policy & Technical Officer

7^th December 2020

Would you like to work with the National Sheep Association, helping to provide a voice for the UK sheep industry? We are looking for a Policy & Technical Officer (extended maternity cover) to take an active role in key areas of NSA policy and technical work, communicating and promoting this to members, non-members and others to raise the profile of NSA.

NSA will offer this as one full-time or two part-time roles, depending on the candidates that come forward. Be it one role or split, the areas of responsibilty are to:-

• • Work with the NSA Chief Executive and the UK Policy & Technical Committee to research key policy areas and produce briefing documents, NSA policy positions, policy papers and consultation responses.
  • Be aware of all elements of NSA policy work, taking specific responsibility for key areas as delegated by the NSA Chief Executive. Attend meetings where requested.
  • Organise the NSA UK Policy & Technical and NSA English committees, and support regional committees in contributing to policy and technical discussion.
  • Maximise opportunities to integrate policy and technical work into all NSA communications work. This will include working with the NSA Communications Team to produce press releases and content for the NSA Weekly Email Update, Sheep Farmer magazine, website and social media.
  • Attend technical meetings where NSA can provide expertise.
  • Field technical enquiries made to NSA (i.e. those that come mainly from NSA members about issues specific to their flock or business).
  • Deliver NSA’s involvement in the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) group.
  • Develop and enhance partnerships with bodies doing research/technical work, ensuring NSA is involved where appropriate. This will include keeping abreast of funding opportunities and, working with other NSA staff / service providers, submitting bids or supporting partnership funding; where bids are successful, also ensuring NSA delivers its involvement in the project.

The ideal candidate(s) will be an enthusiastic and organised individual with an eye for detail. They will have extensive knowledge of and experience with agricultural policy, as well as interest and knowledge of UK sheep farming systems. They will perform well on independent projects and work effectively with other staff and volunteers. They will have good oral and written communication skills, and experience and confidence in representing an agreed position within meetings.

The role(s) will be home-based for as long as coronavirus restrictions are in place. As things return to normal, there will be a requirement to spend some time at NSA Head Office in Malvern, Worcestershire. Applicants must have a full driving licence and be willing/able to travel to represent NSA at various meetings. Flexibility for occasional evening events is also required. Salary in the region of £24,000, depending on experience, plus expenses in line with the NSA Expenses Policy. The role(s) will be on a 12-month maternity cover contract initially.

Applications close at 12 noon on Tuesday 5th January 2021. All applicants must submit a covering letter, CV and completed application form to Joanne Briggs, NSA Operations Director, at joanne@nationalsheep.org.uk . Any questions about the role can be directed to the same email address or to Joanne on 07973 726048. Download the application form below. When applying, please state if you wish to work full-time or part-time.