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: - 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 - Liaise with the farm owner to achieve agreed KPIs, financial budgets, and herd targets - Overall staff management of all staff members and contractors, including weekly staff rotas and training.
- Taking full responsibility for dry cow management, calving cows and colostrum protocols.
- Grazing management and budgeting - Utilising the data provided by Uniform & Cow manager, demonstrating a clear understanding of the software.
- Maintain and build strong working relationships with third-party visitors, including consultants, vets and nutritionists - Undertake proactive management of health and safety standards across the farm estate.
- Working closely with the Farm Owner to develop the strategy for the farm.
- Ensuring the farm is kept tidy and safe to operate at all times - 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 Benefits: Company pension Flexitime Free parking Housing allowance On-site parking Relocation assistance Schedule: Day shift Holidays Weekend availability JTRA1_UKTJ