Do you want to be at the forefront of transforming the livestock industry?
Do you thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment?
If so, we have an incredible opportunity for you!
The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) is an executive agency of the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), delivering over £2 billion in payments to farmers, traders and landowners each year.
We are an Operational Delivery Profession organisation, with the majority of our people delivering day to day services to our customers and stakeholders.
We make excellent delivery happen, empowering agricultural and rural communities to create a better place to live.
We manage over 40 schemes, and also make payments on behalf of Natural England, to ensure we have a healthy rural economy, strong and sustainable rural communities, and to protect and enhance the natural environment.
Our vision is to create a great place for people living in this country. We have developed a set of four strategic objectives covering our policy outcomes and corporate objectives. These objectives help us to deliver our ambitious vision to build our green and healthy future and provide a framework for all of the important work that we carry out.
Further information can be found on the Rural Payments Agency website Rural Payments Agency - GOV.UK (
We are looking for an enthusiastic Livestock Subject Matter Expert (SME) who is passionate about the livestock industry to join our team at the Rural Payments Agency (RPA). The role will be based in the Livestock Operational team. This area is undergoing a transformational change that includes the implementation of new policies, systems and technology, business processes and services.
Operational delivery plays a crucial role in providing essential services to our customers and stakeholders. As an operational senior manager SME, you will be on the frontline of our work which provides millions of pounds to the rural economy and ensures customers are able to access the services they need and fulfil their obligations.
You will be able to work on your own initiative, building and maintaining strong relationships with your team and key livestock stakeholders. With a commitment to problem solving, you will lead on strategies and policies, provide advice on livestock traceability and support innovative technologies and emerging developments. Additionally, you will represent RPA in various national governance forums.
You will work with flexibility to support the RPA, DEFRA, and our customers, while successfully managing the demanding challenges facing our organisation. You will contribute to the successful delivery of projects and programmes in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, demonstrating the ability to drive forward change and continuous improvement. You will be at the forefront of change, ensuring that teams are well-equipped to adapt while maintaining high service standards. The role involves providing visible leadership, guiding others through the transition, and fostering a smooth adoption of new practices.
There will be line management responsibility of large teams, including the possibility of remote management of colleagues in other parts of the country. There will also be the requirement of regular travel to the Workington office as this is where the majority of the team are based.