Livestock Operations Manager in Carlisle

Harrison & Hetherington is the UKs largest and most progressive livestock auction business, operating seven markets across Northern England and Southern Scotland. We are seeking a capable and hands-on Livestock Operations Manager to lead the yard team at our flagship site, Borderway Mart in Carlisle. This is a critical leadership role that underpins the smooth functioning of one of the busiest livestock centres in the country.

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will be responsible for the operational delivery and overall performance of the Borderway site. This is a role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced agricultural environment and is passionate about delivering high standards of animal welfare, health and safety, and customer service.

You will oversee every aspect of yard activity, ensuring seamless coordination of livestock movement and sale-day operations, while acting as a visible and respected leader among staff and stakeholders alike. At the heart of your role will be people and livestock. You will lead, motivate and manage the yard team, allocating tasks, maintaining performance, and promoting a high-functioning team environment.

You will work closely with auctioneers, customers and external partners to ensure that livestock are received, penned, moved and loaded in a safe, efficient and welfare-compliant manner. Whether it’s solving an operational issue, resolving a customer query or supporting your team on the ground, your approach will be proactive, organised, and customer-focused.

You will also be responsible for ensuring that all market activity meets the highest standards of compliance. This includes overseeing adherence to animal welfare and environmental regulations, and ensuring that H&Hs robust health and safety policies are fully implemented across the site.

Your oversight will extend to supporting off-site sales and assisting satellite locations when required, as well as working with the Facilities Manager on the maintenance of market infrastructure and company-owned land.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of livestock handling and market operations, coupled with proven experience in team leadership. You should be a natural organiser, someone with the energy and confidence to coordinate complex sale days, liaise with multiple internal and external stakeholders, and respond swiftly to changing demands. A sound working knowledge of health and safety and a commitment to best practice in animal welfare are essential.

This is a pivotal opportunity for someone looking to take the next step in their agricultural career within a well-established, forward-thinking business. In return, H&H offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, company pension, ongoing training and development, private healthcare, income protection, free parking, and a range of employee benefits.