There’s a distinct feeling in the air when September arrives. The combines have largely fallen silent, the days begin to shorten, fruits are in abundance on trees and hedgerows, and for many, there’s a sense of a new beginning that comes with the start of the academic year.
Even long after our school days are over, this time of year often prompts a period of reflection. The summer break is over, routines are re-established, and we naturally start to think about what we want to achieve before the year is out.
For many rural professionals, from estate managers to agricultural business consultants, this “back to school” mindset makes it the perfect time to consider a career move.
The Autumn Hiring Season
While January is traditionally seen as the time for new resolutions, the autumn months are often when the recruitment market really picks up pace. We consistently see a significant increase in new roles becoming available from September onwards.
Businesses and their leadership teams return from summer holidays refreshed and focused. Budgets for the next financial year are often confirmed, and strategic hiring plans that were discussed in early summer are now put into action. This means that from September to December, many of the best opportunities for land agents and rural surveyors come to the market. Decision-makers are available and motivated to fill positions, which can lead to a more efficient and straightforward hiring process for everyone involved.
We consistently see a significant increase in new roles becoming available from September onwards.
A Chance to Take Stock
The summer often provides a welcome change of pace. Whether it was spent managing harvest, overseeing estate events, or taking a well-earned family holiday, it gives us a chance to step back from the day-to-day routine. This break provides valuable head-space to think about our careers and what we truly want from them.
It’s a good time to ask some important questions:
- Am I still challenged? Is my current role as an agricultural consultant providing the variety and responsibility I need to stay engaged?
- Is there a clear path for progression? Can I see a route to becoming a partner, or am I feeling stuck?
- Does my work align with my values? Am I working on projects, like new environmental schemes or diversification initiatives, that I find genuinely rewarding?
- What does my work-life balance look like? Does my employer offer genuine flexibility, such as the ability to work from home a couple of days a week or adjust my hours to fit around family commitments?
Answering these questions honestly can help clarify whether it’s time to seek a new opportunity that better aligns with your personal and professional goals.
What We Are Seeing in the Rural Sector
From our conversations with clients and candidates across the country, a few clear trends are emerging this autumn.
There is a strong demand for rural surveyors and land agents with specific experience in subsidy and environmental schemes like the SFI and Countryside Stewardship. Professionals who can confidently guide landowners through this changing landscape are highly sought after.
We are also seeing more firms offer clearly defined career progression plans. Instead of vague promises of future promotion, they are presenting structured pathways, for example, outlining the specific steps and timescales for an associate to reach director level. This provides the clarity and security that many talented people are looking for.
On the candidate side, we are speaking with many individuals who are looking for more autonomy in their roles. They want the trust and freedom to manage their own client portfolios and make key decisions, backed by a supportive team structure.
Is It Time for Your Next Chapter?
The Club provides a fantastic, professional, and private setting for us to connect with you. Miranda Webster will be using the Club regularly and is available to meet there. Whether you are an estate trustee thinking about succession planning, an estate owner looking to expand your team, or a rural professional considering your next career move, we now have the perfect place to have that conversation. It is an ideal venue for a general catch-up over coffee or a more detailed discussion about your recruitment needs or career goals. We are genuinely excited about the opportunities this membership brings to build stronger relationships across the sector.