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- Tasks: Manage a split-block calving herd and lead a small team on a progressive farm.
- Company: Family-owned mixed farm with a focus on innovation and animal welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free housing, generous time off, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Enjoy a beautiful rural setting with access to local amenities and schools.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in herd management while enjoying a great work/life balance.
- Qualifications: Experience in stockmanship and team leadership; training provided for all skill levels.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We have a contract vacancy for a practical and motivated Herd Manager to take day-to-day responsibility for a split-block calving herd on this progressive family-owned mixed farm, situated on the edge of the North Wessex Downs.
The herd is producing over 13,000 litres per cow, including 5,000 litres from forage, on a Selkley Vale Cadbury contract. The system focuses on getting the most from home-grown forage, including grazed grass, alongside maintaining the highest standards of herd health and welfare.
A major investment in a new 200-cow cubicle shed has recently been completed, improving cow comfort and performance, and allowing for planned expansion to over 300 cows. Well-maintained facilities include an 18/36 Westfalia parlour with Sanicleanse teat-brush, ADF, NEDAP collars & auto-drafting, which is capable of milking up to 100 cows per hour.
A good work/life balance is facilitated by regular and reliable part-time staff and partial 3 x milking, with late lactation only milked 2 x a day. Calf rearing is done in purpose-built accommodation using an automated milk feeder, and whole milk for beef calves.
You will be responsible for managing a small team and will be given a good level of autonomy in running the herd. The role would suit someone with solid technical expertise, good stockmanship and the ability to organise and lead others; but whatever your skill level, on-going training and development is integral to our mission and will be facilitated.
If you think you can help drive our business forward, we can offer an exceptional package with a salary to reflect the importance of the position and generous time off. A well-appointed 4-bedroom semi-detached house (EPC rated D) is available, free from rent, water rates and council tax, with oil-fired C/H and a large, enclosed garden; located on the edge of the village, within easy reach of a large market town and good local schools.
Herd Manager employer: LKL Services Ltd
Contact Detail:
LKL Services Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Herd Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the farm and its operations before your interview. Familiarise yourself with their herd management practices and the facilities they have in place. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with others in the industry! Reach out to current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide insider info about the farm culture and what they're really looking for in a Herd Manager.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some questions to ask during your interview. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the farm is the right fit for you. Think about aspects like team dynamics, training opportunities, and future growth plans.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore other roles that might suit your skills and interests.
We think you need these skills to ace Herd Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you start writing your application, make sure to read through the entire job description. This will help us understand what we're looking for and tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experience match our needs.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific examples that demonstrate your technical expertise and stockmanship. We want to see how you've successfully managed herds in the past and how you can bring that knowledge to our farm.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value authenticity and want to get a sense of who you are beyond your qualifications. Share your passion for herd management and why you're excited about this opportunity.
Apply Through Our Website: Once you're happy with your application, make sure to hit the apply button on our website. This ensures your application goes directly to us, and we can review it promptly. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at LKL Services Ltd
✨Know Your Herd
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of herd management practices, especially those related to split-block calving. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and benefits of managing a high-yielding herd like the one described in the job. This will show your potential employer that you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand the intricacies involved.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since you'll be managing a small team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and past experiences. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or improved herd health and welfare. Highlight how you can motivate others and maintain a good work/life balance for your team.
✨Discuss Technical Expertise
The role requires solid technical expertise, so be ready to talk about your experience with milking systems, calf rearing, and herd health management. Mention any specific technologies or systems you've worked with, like the Westfalia parlour or automated milk feeders, to demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the farm's future plans for expansion or how they ensure the highest standards of herd health. This not only shows your genuine interest in the position but also gives you a better understanding of the company's goals and culture.