At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a thriving dairy herd and lead daily farm operations.
- Company: Established family-run dairy farm with a rich history since 1929.
- 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 in dairy farming.
- 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.
No overseas applicants without a work visa.
Working Dairy Herd/Farm Manager in Holsworthy employer: Workcircle
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 for genuine career progression through a structured succession plan. With a strong emphasis on employee development, competitive salary, and a supportive work culture, this role offers a unique chance to grow within a respected farming community while enjoying the benefits of rural living.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Working Dairy Herd/Farm Manager in Holsworthy
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the dairy farming community. Attend local agricultural events or join online forums where you can connect with others in the industry. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show up and shine! If you can, visit the farm before applying. This gives you a chance to meet the team, understand the operations, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining their family-run business.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss herd management practices, animal welfare standards, and how you would handle day-to-day operations. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all our current vacancies there, so keep an eye out for other opportunities that might catch your interest.
We think you need these skills to ace Working Dairy Herd/Farm Manager in Holsworthy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Dairy Farming:When writing your application, let your love for dairy farming shine through! Share your experiences and what excites you about managing a herd. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role and how it aligns with our family-run farm values.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail your previous experience in dairy herd management. We’re looking for strong stockmanship and practical skills, so don’t hold back on showcasing your hands-on experience and any specific achievements that demonstrate your capabilities.
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to tailor your application to our job description. Mention how your skills and ambitions align with the responsibilities of the role, especially your desire to progress into senior management. We appreciate candidates who take the extra step!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best 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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Workcircle
✨Know Your Herd
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of dairy herd management. Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the farm's operations, such as their forage-based system and the Cow Manager system they use. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or improved herd performance. Highlighting your hands-on approach will resonate well with the family-run ethos of the farm.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the farm's future plans, especially regarding the succession process. This not only shows your interest in long-term commitment but also gives you a chance to gauge if the farm aligns with your career ambitions.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Animal Welfare
Make sure to express your commitment to high welfare standards and herd health. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been part of that improved animal welfare. This is crucial for a role that prioritises both technical standards and the well-being of the herd.
