At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a 500-acre farm, ensuring top-notch livestock care and sustainable practices.
- Company: Join Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College, a leader in agricultural education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on farm innovation while supporting students in their learning journey.
- Qualifications: Experience in farm management and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment that values diversity and personal growth.
Walford Farm is situated in a 500-acre estate, 15 minutes from Shrewsbury in Shropshire. We run a commercial farm with approximately 220 dairy cows, replacement youngstock and a small sheep flock, supporting students to develop their higher technical skills. We operate an established grass-based Autumn block calving system. The farm has invested in health monitoring and breeding systems and is a LIC monitor farm.
Working to sustainable farm management principles, you will deliver excellent arable and livestock performance comparable with commercial benchmarks. You will manage livestock systems which demonstrate the very best in animal welfare practices. You will maintain high standards of estate maintenance and have an eye for detail to manage what is effectively a showcase farm.
In addition to the day-to-day management of the farm, we are keen to continue developing the estate’s future potential. The successful candidate will be encouraged to contribute ideas and strategic thinking around farm diversification opportunities and the future direction of the business, helping ensure Walford Farm remains innovative, resilient and commercially relevant.
You will have excellent communication skills and the people skills necessary to manage the farm staff and to support high quality student learning on the farm.
Large and high specification accommodation available through a service occupancy agreement. A comprehensive package of employee benefits is in place including a competitive salary, above average holiday entitlement and eligibility to join a defined benefit pension scheme with Local Government Pension Scheme. Also, we offer generous occupational sickness, maternity, paternity and shared parental leave pay schemes, a high number of free on-site parking bays, access to a wide range of free CPD events and professional qualifications, flexible working policy, on-site gym, eye care voucher scheme, cycle to work scheme, and wellbeing support.
We offer a friendly, honest and respectful working environment and actively promote equality, diversity and inclusion. We take a supportive approach to staff development, both personally and professionally. HLNSC is committed to safeguarding and promotes the welfare of all learners and expects all staff to share this commitment. North Shropshire College is a Disability Confident Employer.
For an informal chat about the role please contact Bronwen Bray at b.bray@hlnsc.ac.uk or visit our website at www.nsc.ac.uk/jobs email hr@nsc.ac.uk or telephone 01939 626100.
Closing Date: Friday 17th April 2026.
Farm Manager employer: Walford College
Contact Detail:
Walford College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the farming community, attend local agricultural events, and connect with alumni from your college. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your experience with livestock management, sustainable practices, and any innovative ideas you've implemented. This will help you stand out when chatting with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the farm's current practices and future goals. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs, especially around farm diversification and sustainability. It shows you're genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. 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 Farm Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Farming: When writing your application, let your love for farming shine through! Talk about your experiences with livestock and arable management, and how you align with our sustainable practices. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Highlight Your People Skills: As a Farm Manager, you'll be leading a team and supporting students. Make sure to showcase your communication and leadership skills in your application. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams or mentored others in the past.
Be Strategic and Innovative: We’re looking for someone who can think ahead! In your application, mention any ideas you have for farm diversification or improving operations. Show us that you’re not just about maintaining the status quo but are eager to help Walford Farm grow.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College!
How to prepare for a job interview at Walford College
✨Know Your Farm Facts
Before the interview, brush up on the specifics of Walford Farm. Understand its operations, the grass-based Autumn block calving system, and the livestock management practices they employ. This knowledge will show your genuine interest in the role and help you engage in meaningful discussions.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a Farm Manager, you'll need to manage staff and support students. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or mentored others in the past. Highlight your communication skills and how you foster a positive working environment, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Bring Ideas for Innovation
The job description mentions a desire for strategic thinking around farm diversification. Think about innovative ideas you could bring to the table. Whether it's new farming techniques or sustainability practices, be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the future direction of the farm.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the farm's current projects, future goals, and the team dynamics. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the farm aligns with your values and career aspirations.