Strategy Lead – Rural Economy (South Downs National Park Authority)

Position: Strategy Lead – Rural Economy

Location: South Downs Centre, Midhurst (Hybrid Working)

Closing Date: 8 March 2026

Interview Date: 24 March 2026

Salary: £48,241 to £51,387

Hours: 37 hours per week

Type of Post: Permanent

The South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) cares for the landscapes, wildlife and heritage of the National Park and helps people to learn about and enjoy the area.

We are recruiting a Strategy Lead to be responsible for the delivery of our work on the rural economy, supporting land management-based rural businesses to flourish and contribute towards the delivery of the South Downs National Park Partnership Management Plan (PMP) 2026-2031. The role will also involve leading on the Authority’s work with regard to the review, development, and monitoring of Whole Estate Plans.

This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic individual with proven technical and interpersonal skills to be part of the SDNPA Farming and Land Management Team. As part of a team working across the Park on nature, climate, people and place objectives, you will be required to work collaboratively, supporting land management-based rural businesses on diversification opportunities and strategic forward planning.

You will need to have knowledge and experience of relevant rural economy, strategic and policy issues, strong interpersonal skills, and both demonstrable project management and consultation response experience.

To apply: Please apply via the button shown to upload your CV and complete our application, referring to the person specification.

SDNPA is an inclusive organisation, and we welcome applications from everyone irrespective of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, faith and religion, disability, and age.

We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS) for disabled applicants.

In all circumstances, the SDNPA appoints on merit, based on the evidence the applicant supplies in meeting the essential criteria for the post.

SDNPA Enhanced Benefits

– Flexible working (some positions may require on-site presence and/or specific hours due to business needs)

– Local government pension scheme

– Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme

– Heat Scheme (capped interest-free green home improvement loan, available on a first-come, first-served basis)

– Healthcare – includes cash plan, counselling and wellbeing discounts

– Access to the Health and Wellbeing portal and webinars

– 27 days’ annual leave, increasing to 30 days, plus bank holidays

– Professional development support

– Cycle to work scheme

– Car sharing

– Use of pool cars

– Regular staff events/activities