Northern Ireland Executive: Competition to Appoint a Deputy Chair and up to 18 Members to the Board of the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI)

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched a public appointment process to appoint a Deputy Chair and up to 18 Members to the Board of the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI).

AFBI is an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body sponsored by DAERA, providing scientific research and services in the fields of agriculture, food, the marine and natural environment and biosciences.

Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir said: “AFBI provides vital services to DAERA and industry in support of our shared agriculture and environmental objectives. The Deputy Chair and Board Members will help to lead the organisation through significant challenges in the coming years.

“If you have the ability to provide effective leadership, deliver results and use your communication skills to work effectively with others to oversee successful change, I would encourage you to apply.”

For more information about this competition and how to apply, please visit: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/public-appointment-vacancies.

Completed applications must be returned to the Department by noon Thursday 6 March 2025.

For more information about AFBI, visit: afbini.gov.uk

Notes to editors:

1. The appointments will be made in accordance with the Agriculture (NI) Order 2004 and the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland (CPANI) Code of Practice.
2. More information, including the duties and responsibilities of the posts, and the criteria used by the Department during the recruitment and selection process are available at: Public Appointment Vacancies - Deputy Chair and up to 18 members to the Board of the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) | Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs
3. Appointments will be for a period of three years, subject to satisfactory performance. An additional 2-year term may be considered. It is anticipated successful candidates will be appointed from 1 June 2025.
4. The Deputy Chair role requires approximately 20 days per annum. This position is remunerated at £12,289 per annum (under review). The Member position requires approximately 20 days per annum and is remunerated at £436 per day (under review). Reasonable travel and subsistence expenses incurred on official business will also be reimbursed, excluding travel between home and AFBI Headquarters.