Herd manager job - north wiltshire

we have a contract vacancy for a practical and motivated herd manager to take day-to-day responsibility for a split-block calving herd on this progressive family-owned mixed farm, situated on the edge of the north wessex downs.

the herd is producing over 13,000 litres per cow, including 5,000 litres from forage, on a selkley vale cadbury contract.  the system focuses on getting the most from home-grown forage, including grazed grass, alongside maintaining the highest standards of herd health and welfare.

a major investment in a new 200-cow cubicle shed has recently been completed, improving cow comfort and performance, and allowing for planned expansion to over 300-cows.

well-maintained facilities include an 18/36 westfalia parlour with sanicleanse teat-brush, adf, nedap collars & auto-drafting, which is capable of milking up to 100 cows per hour. a good work/life balance is facilitated by regular and reliable part-time staff and partial 3 x milking, with late lactation only milked 2 x a day.  calf rearing is done in purpose-built accommodation using an automated milk feeder, and whole milk for beef calves.

you will be responsible for managing a small team and will be given a good level of autonomy in running the herd.  the role would suit someone with solid technical expertise, good stockmanship and the ability to organise and lead others; but whatever your skill level, on-going training and development is integral to our mission and will be facilitated.

if you think you can help drive our business forward, we can offer an exceptional package with a salary to reflect the importance of the position and generous time off.  a well-appointed 4-bedroom semi-detached house (epc rated d) is available, free from rent, water rates and council tax, with oil-fired c/h and a large, enclosed garden; located on the edge of the village, within easy reach of a large market town and good local schools.

* no overseas applicants without a work visa *