Job Description
Herd Manager - Kent
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Herd Manager to join our award-winning dairy operation in Kent.
Our Farm
We are an award-winning dairy business covering 160ha on the Kent/Surrey border. Our dairy consists of a herd of 540 Pedigree Holsteins plus 300 followers. The herd is milked three times a day through a 36/36 GEA parlour, with automatic ID and ADF. The cows average 12,000 litres milk sold, which is then supplied on a Premium contract, with all our records kept up to date using Uniform and Cow Manager. The herd calves year-round and are grazed in the summer months.
We pride ourselves on our milk quality, staff structure, and facility investment. As a business, we have invested heavily in our infrastructure and facilities to create an excellent dairy operation. You will be joining a full-time team of seven, who are all given opportunities for development and training.
Your Role
Working with the engaged Farm Owner, this is an exciting opportunity for a Herd Manager to establish themselves within the business and drive the dairy forward. Roles and responsibilities will include:
1. Day-to-day running of the dairy farm operation - managing the dairy, milking, feed management and ensuring herd health and welfare is the top priority.
2. Liaise with the farm owner to achieve agreed KPIs, financial budgets, and herd targets.
3. Overall staff management of all staff members and contractors, including weekly staff rotas and training.
4. Taking full responsibility for dry cow management, calving cows and colostrum protocols.
5. Grazing management and budgeting.
6. Utilising the data provided by Uniform & Cow Manager, demonstrating a clear understanding of the software.
7. Maintain and build strong working relationships with third-party visitors, including consultants, vets and nutritionists.
8. Undertake proactive management of health and safety standards across the farm estate.
9. Working closely with the Farm Owner to develop the strategy for the farm.
10. Ensuring the farm is kept tidy and safe to operate at all times.
11. Farm machinery and general farm maintenance.
Qualifications & Licenses required
* A full UK Driving license.
* Proof of UK right to work.
* AI qualification.
You
The successful candidate will:
* Demonstrate strong previous experience in agriculture and dairy management.
* Have experience in leading a team on a day-to-day basis to achieve agreed targets.
* Be able to manage the farm's finances and costs accordingly.
* Possess the skills to communicate and work effectively with others.
* Be a self-starter, who has high attention to detail and organisational skills.
* Overall, a reliable and genuine person who is invested in moving the farm forward.
The Benefits
* 3-Bedroom semi-detached Cottage on site, with rent and council tax paid.
* Flexible working rota, three days off a fortnight, including alternative weekends and Holiday.
* Competitive salary depending on your experience.
* A role where you can develop your career with given training and support.
* An opportunity to join an established business and excel as a Herd Manager.
Location
The farm is situated in a picturesque setting on the Kent/Surrey border close to Edenbridge, with excellent schools, leisure, shops and pubs nearby. The farm is also less than an hour away from London.
Applications with a cover letter explaining why you would like to work on our farm as a Herd Manager will get preference.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £45,000.00-£55,000.00 per year
Schedule:
* Day shift
* Holidays
* Weekend availability
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