Farm Manager

D R Newitt & Associates; Burgh Le Marsh; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing agricultural organization in the UK is seeking a Farm Manager to oversee multi-site operations in the Alford area. The role involves ensuring high standards of animal welfare, effective team leadership, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in agricultural management, operational efficiency, and staff development. This position offers a competitive salary and the opportunity to lead diverse teams in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing multi-site agricultural operations.
• Strong understanding of animal welfare and compliance regulations.
• Ability to lead and develop a diverse team.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations across multiple farms.
• Conduct routine checks on flock health and welfare.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
• Lead training and development programs for staff.

Skills

Operational Performance

Team Leadership

Biosecurity Management

Animal Welfare Practices

Record Keeping

Job description

Job Title: Farm Manager

Salary: £50,000

Department: Agriculture

Location: Multi-Site Operations (Alford area)

Reports to: Agriculture Manager

Direct Reports: Farm Workers / Site Operatives

Overall Responsibility: Multi-Site Farms, Animal Welfare, Operational Performance, Compliance, Staff Training & Development

Role Purpose

The Farm Manager is responsible for the effective leadership, performance, and welfare standards across multiple farms. This role ensures excellent flock management, consistent produce production, and high-quality operational practice while upholding strict confidentiality regarding company processes, sites, and production systems.

The post holder will manage staff, oversee day-to-day farming activities, maintain compliance with regulatory and industry standards, and drive continuous improvement in biosecurity, animal welfare, and production efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Farm Management

• Oversee daily operations across multiple farms, ensuring optimal flock health, welfare, and productivity.
• Conduct routine checks on feed, water, lighting, and environmental conditions to maintain flock performance.
• Ensure collectors complete accurate daily records, including correct pallet labelling and production logs.
• Manage litter, enrichment, and environmental standards to promote welfare and behavioural needs.
• Implement and maintain high-quality farm operating procedures that support maximum production efficiency.
• Monitor production data, identify trends, and initiate corrective actions where needed.
• Maintain high standards of site cleanliness, including waste removal, range inspections, and general site presentation.
• Ensure all operational details, records, and production systems remain fully confidential.

People Management & Team Development

• Lead, motivate, and supervise workers across multiple sites, fostering a positive and productive work culture.
• Develop staff capability through structured training, coaching, and on-the-job development.
• Manage rotas, task allocation, and staffing levels to meet operational requirements.
• Conduct performance reviews and address training needs, ensuring consistent standards of work.
• Ensure all staff follow company protocols relating to hygiene, PPE, welfare, and safe working practices.
• Reinforce confidentiality expectations and ensure all employees adhere to company privacy policies.

Flock Health, Biosecurity & Welfare

• Implement robust biosecurity protocols, including wheel-wash, foot-dip, visitor controls, and hygiene procedures.
• Conduct daily flock health checks and **escalate** issues such as changes in mortality, produce production, or water intake.
• Complete routine health monitoring tasks including blood sampling, swabbing, and weighing pullets.
• Work closely with the agricultural team and veterinary support to coordinate preventative and responsive flock care.
• Maintain secure, accurate, and confidential health and treatment records.
• Conduct water-line flushing and ensure actions for fly and pest control are in place and verified.
• Promote, monitor, and uphold the highest standards of animal welfare at all times.

4. Feed & Nutrition Management

• Monitor feed usage and ensure accurate forecasting and inventory control.
• Work with nutrition specialists to adjust diet plans based on flock behaviour, health, and production data.
• Ensure feed systems are maintained, functional, and free from contamination.
• Keep feed-related information confidential and aligned with company protocols.

Regulatory Compliance & Assurance

Ensure full compliance with animal welfare, food safety, environmental, and biosecurity regulations.

Maintain accurate records for inspections and assurance audits, ensuring strict confidentiality.

Prepare for and manage external audits, including:

• Regulatory bodies (e.g., DEFRA)
• Industry codes (e.g., BEIC Lion Code)
• Welfare schemes (e.g., RSPCA Assured / Freedom Food)
• Organic certification bodies
• Support sites operating under Environmental Permits, ensuring documentation is accurate and up to date.

Ensure all audit findings, procedures, and production data remain confidential.

Facility & Equipment Management

• Oversee the maintenance and repair of buildings, plant, and equipment to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Coordinate specialised repairs with internal teams or external contractors.
• Maintain secure access to sites and protect confidential information relating to layouts, systems, and processes.
• Ensure all facilities meet regulatory and internal safety standards.