Farm Manager (Interim Contract)
*Contract Length: 8–12 weeks (with potential for permanent position)
*Pay Rate: £19.86 – £21.19 per hour
*Location: Leeds
*Working Hours: Monday–Thursday: 8 hours per day, Friday: 4 hours (finishing at 12:30 PM), potential weekend cover (rate to be confirmed)
Join our team as an Interim Farm Manager, where you will manage the operations of a working farm that doubles as a visitor attraction. This role is crucial in maintaining high standards of animal welfare, land management, and visitor engagement. It offers a unique blend of responsibilities from managing livestock, including mixed and rare breeds, to enhancing visitor experiences.
Day-to-day of the role:
*Oversee daily farm operations, including livestock care and fodder production.
*Manage and motivate a team of staff, casual workers, and volunteers.
*Ensure compliance with health and safety standards and all relevant legislation.
*Develop and deliver engaging visitor experiences and educational opportunities.
*Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with government documentation (e.g., BPS, ELMS, animal registration and transport).
*Prepare and implement a Farm Business Plan integrating livestock, land management, and visitor access.
*Manage budgets and provide accurate performance reports.
*Represent the farm at internal and external meetings as required.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
*Strong farming knowledge and experience in agricultural management.
*Proven people management skills.
*Experience with mixed breed livestock and animal welfare standards.
*Health & safety knowledge relevant to farm operations.
*Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
*Good ICT skills (Word, Excel, databases).
*Knowledge of agricultural law and current management practices.
Desirable Skills:
*Experience with rare breeds and RBST accreditation.
*Visitor attraction management experience.
*Knowledge of local authority processes.
*Experience handling employee relations issues.
*Experience working in a historic environment and liaising with external agencies.
Behavioural Attributes:
*Positive commitment to service excellence.
*Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
*Strong communication and influencing skills.
*Willingness to comply with equality, diversity, and health & safety policies.