Final days to apply for Red Tractor chief executive role

With only a handful of days remaining until applications close, Red Tractor has highlighted the final opportunity for candidates to apply for its chief executive role, ahead of Jim Moseley’s retirement in April 2026.

Mr Moseley, who has led the UK’s largest food assurance scheme since 2017 after previously serving as its chairman, announced in September that he would step back from full-time employment after a 50-year career in the food and drink sector.

He will remain in post until the end of the 2025-26 financial year to ensure continuity during the transition.

See also: Red Tractor CEO Jim Moseley to step down in six months

His successor will lead the delivery of Red Tractor farm assurance, oversee the organisation’s financial performance and growth, and act as company secretary with responsibility for corporate governance and regulatory compliance.

The role also involves building strong relationships across farming, the wider supply chain, government and the media.

Recruitment is being overseen by Red Tractor’s nominations committee, led by Red Tractor chairman Alistair Mackintosh and comprising representatives from across the supply chain, including farmer, industry and consumer directors.

Executive search firm Berwick Partners, part of the Odgers Group, was appointed as the recruiters following a competitive tender.

Applications close at 11.59pm on Sunday 4 January 2026 and are being sought via the Berwick Partners and Red Tractor websites, LinkedIn and The Guardian.

Shortlisting and interviews

Berwick Partners will carry out initial screening and interviews before presenting a shortlist to the nominations committee. Shortlisted candidates will then be interviewed in two stages.

Mr Moseley will attend initial interviews to answer candidate questions about the role but will take no part in the final selection.

The nominations committee will recommend a preferred candidate to the Red Tractor board, with final approval subject to ratification by the ownership body. An appointment is expected to be announced in March.