Head of Trials and Validation

There comes a point in a senior technical career where the challenge is no longer about running trials; it’s about shaping how trials are done, why they matter, and how they genuinely influence commercial decisions at scale. This role exists for that reason.

A government funded public private entity is looking for an experienced and commercially focused Head of Trials & Validation to take ownership of its UK-wide trials, validation and data operations.

The purpose is simple but critical: generate trusted, real world evidence that helps new technologies move from the research and development phase to commercial adoption.

This is a key leadership role at the helm of the Test, Trial & Demonstration management team. This is not a role focused on academic proof or small-scale experimentation. The emphasis is on commercially representative trials, delivered in real operating environments, producing data that farmers, investors, regulators and supply chains can trust.

Key Aims:

• Set national standards for how trials and validation are designed and delivered

• Influence how emerging technologies are proven, de risked and scaled

• Lead and develop teams whose work directly affects commercial outcomes

• Operate at the interface between innovation, agriculture and industry

The role will suit someone with a strong background in agricultural trials, applied R&D or validation environments. You will have broad knowledge across all sectors of agriculture, excellent team leadership abilities and be confident in public facing communications.

Those passionate about the future of agri-tech will have the chance to ensure the next generation of Ag-Tech products will shape the future of food production are encouraged to apply.

Role Responsibilities:

• Be the lead on all trials, validation and data delivery activity

• Develop and strengthen UK-wide testbed capability, operational frameworks and data systems

• Ensure trials deliver robust, commercially representative performance data

• Set standards for data quality, evidence generation and reporting

• Manage two direct reports responsible for different sectors

• Build, mentor and lead a high performing, geographically distributed team

• Generate trusted data and evidence to support agri-tech adoption and business growth

• Manage budgets, forecasting, resources and departmental capability

• Lead and develop multidisciplinary teams across multiple locations

• Work collaboratively with internal teams to achieve business KPIs and programme outcomes

• Build strong relationships with farmers, growers, innovators and supply chain partners

• Represent the organisation with external stakeholders, boards and industry groups

• Support continuous improvement across the wider test, trial and demonstration function

About you:

This role will suit someone who understands that credibility in trials comes from discipline, relevance and consistency, not volume alone.

• 5+ years’ leadership experience in trials, validation or applied R&D environments

• Strong understanding of agricultural trials and evidence generation

• Track record of building experienced and multidisciplinary teams

• Commercial awareness with the ability to align trials activity to market and customer needs

• Advanced stakeholder management skills and commercial awareness

• Experience embedding operational processes, standards and frameworks

• Strong knowledge of agricultural, animal health, crop health and environmental regulatory frameworks

• Excellent communication and organisational ability

• Able to prioritise workloads and make effective decisions at pace

• The confidence to challenge, influence and lead at senior level

• Full UK driving licence, willingness to travel and stay away regularly

Project management experience and a degree in agriculture or a related discipline are advantageous, but not essential if matched by equivalent commercial experience in the agri-tech sector.

The opportunity

This is an opportunity to be at the heart of a leading public organisation at the forefront of UK agricultural innovation.

You will play a central role in shaping how emerging agri-tech is tested, validated and commercialised across the sector, helping innovative businesses generate the evidence needed to scale successfully.

To apply:

For more information and an informal confidential discussion please call Rupert Kettle on: Office 01885 485523 or e-mail your CV and covering letter to rupert.kettle@delacyexecutive.co.uk

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