Overview

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 and named Sustainable University of the Year 2025, Reading is now embarking on one of the most ambitious programmes in its history: Agrifood Futures.Agrifood Futures is a bold research and innovation strategy that will transform the way we produce, consume and think about food as we move towards 2050. At its heart are three interconnected Priority Research Areas, each shaped to deliver long-term, challenge-led programmes of research and innovation:A resilient food system for everyoneFarming systems that work with nature and our climateFood that nourishes people and the planetThese Areas will be supported by significant new enabling investments including a state-of-the-art innovation farm, advanced food processing facilities, and a participatory platform for nutrition and consumer behaviour.To launch this strategy, the University is establishing a world-class leadership team of five senior appointments:Agrifood Futures Director

– a professorial role providing visionary leadership for the overall strategy, driving the design and delivery of major infrastructure, partnerships and impact.Director, Resilient Food Systems

– a professorial role leading research that empowers stakeholders to understand, mitigate and adapt to risks and shocks in the global agrifood system, ensuring resilience for the future.Director, Sustainable Farming Systems

– a professorial role driving transformative research in farming practices that work with nature and climate, delivering sustainable production alongside environmental and biodiversity gains.Director, Healthy Sustainable Foods

– a professorial role leading the transformation towards diets that are healthy, sustainable, desirable and accessible, supported by cutting-edge food processing and consumer-focused research.Head of Strategic Partnerships and Investments

– a professional services role forging transformative partnerships across industry, government and global stakeholders, and securing major co-investments to deliver the strategy at scale.The Head of Strategic Partnerships and Investments will play a pivotal role in delivering the ambition of Agrifood Futures. The postholder will lead the development of a high-impact ecosystem of strategic partnerships, working with major stakeholders across industry, government, research and the third sector. They will forge transformative collaborations, secure significant joint investments, and position Reading as a proactive, valued partner at the centre of the global agrifood sector.The successful candidate will be a proven partnership builder with extensive experience of securing major co-investment and leading high-value collaborations. They will bring deep knowledge of the agrifood and agritech sectors, including emerging trends and technologies, and the ability to operate effectively at both national and international levels. Exceptional influencing skills, commercial acumen, and the authority to lead complex negotiations with senior stakeholders will be essential.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 www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference IBVXE. Alternatively email Belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Friday 17 October.

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