A large family run and innovative farm in the North of Ireland is seeking a General Manager to take full responsibility for the daily management of the farm's large herd of cows and its high performing, robotic and fully housed environment, with a clear focus on scaling these operations to become one of the best in the sector.
The General Manager does not need to come from a farming or agricultural background; however, the right person must have excellent leadership, management, adaptability, ambition, vision, and be able to be hands on where necessary.
Role benefits include accommodation, a company vehicle, and a performance related bonus.
Applications from ex military personnel are strongly encouraged
Key Responsibilities:
Oversee all aspects of managing a large herd of cows and its operations, with a strategic focus on scaling up these operations
Drive productivity and efficiency in all herd related operations
Lead herd planning initiatives to optimise the farm throughout the year
Organise and oversee in house services that contribute to optimal herd health and fertility
Recruit, train, and manage a growing team, fostering a culture of excellence, responsibility and continuous improvement
Set performance standards and review team development, ensuring the right structures are in place to support expansion and innovation
Be familiar with Lean and passionate towards a Continuous Improvement mindset for yourself and team development
Lead by example, championing best practices in animal care, hygiene, and safety
Monitor herd health, liaising closely with vets, nutritionists, and external advisors to ensure top tier care
Ensure full compliance with Irish and EU regulations, maintaining strict biosecurity, hygiene, and welfare standards
Keep accurate and timely records to meet audit requirements, including medicine usage, treatments, and welfare checks
Maintain and oversee the efficient operation of robotic milking systems and related infrastructure, with hands on problem solving as needed
Monitor digital herd management systems to track performance, health, and productivity KPIs
Ensure infrastructure is well maintained and scalable to support future growth plans
Take full financial responsibility for the dairy enterprise
Report regularly to senior management, providing detailed operational and financial performance updates
Evaluate cost effectiveness and identify opportunities for improved efficiencies or returns on investment
Knowledge, skills and qualifications: Essential:
Proven experience successfully managing teams and operations
Strong leadership, motivational, and staff development skills
High proficiency in interpreting data and performance metrics to inform decision making
Is ambitious, adaptable, and can have a hands on approach
Strong organisational and problem solving skills, with a forward thinking, proactive approach
Full, clean driving licence
Desirable:
Qualifications or experience in Agriculture, Animal Science, or a related field
Mechanical aptitude for robotic system troubleshooting and preventive maintenance
Understanding of fertility management, animal health, and welfare in a high output, non seasonal system
Salary:
£45,000 to £60,000 DOE
Benefits:
Vehicle, accommodation, performance related bonus, professional development opportunities