At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a thriving dairy herd and lead daily farm operations.
- Company: Established family-run dairy farm in beautiful West Devon.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, housing included, ongoing training, and career progression.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for hands-on individuals looking to make an impact.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and grow into a senior management role.
- Qualifications: Experience in dairy herd management and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: 5 miles south of Holsworthy, West Devon
An exciting opportunity has arisen on a well-established, family-run dairy farm in West Devon following the forthcoming retirement of a long-standing herd manager (21 years). This is a career-defining role, offering the chance to take responsibility for a highly-efficient dairy herd and, over time, transition into full farm management/equity share through a structured and supported succession plan.
The Farm
- 340-cow autumn block calving herd (tight 8-week block)
- Forage-based system, self-feed silage (maize and grass silage)
- Winter housed, paddock grazing when at grass
- 20/40 Westfalia parlour (C21)
- Cow Manager system with Uniform for herd data
- Three-way shedding gate
- Established family farm (since 1929)
The Role
Initially focused on day-to-day herd management, the successful candidate will:
- Lead and manage all aspects of the dairy herd to a high technical and welfare standard
- Take an active role in milking and day-to-day farm operations ("working manager")
- Work closely with vet, nutritionist, and advisors
- Maintain herd performance, health, fertility, and milk quality
- Manage and develop the farm team
Over time, the role will expand to include:
- Grassland and forage management
- Business performance, budgeting, and strategic input
- Full farm management responsibility as part of a planned succession process
Candidate Profile
We are looking for someone who:
- Has strong experience in dairy herd management
- Demonstrates excellent stockmanship and attention to detail
- Is practical, hands-on, and leads by example
- Has the ambition and capability to progress into a senior management role
- Possesses good people management and communication skills
- Is keen to take on increasing responsibility over time
Package
- Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
- 3-bedroom bungalow (central heating, council tax included)
- Ongoing training and development
- Genuine long-term progression opportunity.
For an informal discussion or to apply, please contact Henry Hare on.
No overseas applicants without a work visa.
Working Dairy Herd/Farm Manager in Holsworthy employer: MindMatch
Join a well-established, family-run dairy farm in the picturesque West Devon, where you will not only manage a highly-efficient dairy herd but also have the opportunity to grow into full farm management through a structured succession plan. With a focus on employee development, competitive salary, and a supportive work culture, this role offers a unique chance to thrive in a community-oriented environment while enjoying the benefits of living in a beautiful rural setting.
