Farm Manager – Arable & Potato Enterprise (Root & Vegetable Focus)

Woodfields Fruit Ltd and BH Savidge & Son; Lea; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A family-run farming business in Lea, England is seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee arable and potato operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in root crops, proven leadership skills, and experience in sustainable farming practices. Join a dedicated team focused on innovating crop production and contributing to the farm's growth while maintaining high-quality standards.

Benefits

Opportunity for innovation

Commitment to sustainability

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in farm management, focusing on root crops or vegetables.
• Proven experience managing and motivating staff.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead arable and potato production from planning to harvest.
• Recruit and supervise seasonal and permanent staff.
• Manage budgets and report on farm performance.

Skills

Team leadership

Crop management

Organisational skills

Problem-solving

Education

Agricultural qualifications

Tools

Modern machinery

Job description

About Us

BH Savidge & Son is a fourth-generation, family-run farming business operating from Rock Farm Lea and Woodfields Farm in Herefordshire. We specialise in arable crops and potatoes, and are actively exploring diversification into alternative root and vegetable crops. Sustainable farming practices, such as reduced tillage, cover cropping, and precision nutrient management, are central to our operations.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee the arable and potato operations, with a particular focus on root crop and vegetable production. The successful candidate will combine hands‑on agronomy expertise with strong team leadership, ensuring that staff are managed efficiently and effectively to maximise output and maintain high‑quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Crop Management & Diversification
  • Lead arable and potato production, from planning and sowing through to harvest.
  • Identify and implement alternative root and vegetable crops to enhance profitability and market opportunities.
  • Develop crop rotations, nutrition plans, irrigation schedules, and cultivation strategies to optimise yields.
  • Monitor and manage crop health, pests, and diseases, implementing preventative and responsive measures.
• Team Leadership & Staff Management
  • Recruit, train, and supervise seasonal and permanent staff, ensuring they are motivated and productive.
  • Plan and allocate daily tasks, schedules, and workloads to maximise farm output and efficiency.
  • Implement performance management and development plans, providing coaching and mentoring.
  • Maintain a positive, professional, and safe working environment that encourages accountability and high standards.
• Operational & Financial Management
  • Oversee machinery and equipment maintenance, ensuring efficient operation.
  • Manage budgets, input costs, and labour planning to maintain profitability.
  • Provide regular reports to the Managing Director on farm performance, yield projections, and staff productivity.
• Health, Safety & Sustainability
  • Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations and conduct regular risk assessments.
  • Promote sustainable practices in crop production, including soil health management, cover cropping, and water efficiency.

Key Requirements

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in farm management, with a strong focus on root crops, potatoes, or vegetable production.
• Proven team leadership skills, with experience managing and motivating staff to achieve high performance.
• Strong organisational, planning, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of modern arable and root crop techniques, machinery, and sustainable practices.
• Agricultural qualifications are desirable.
• Proactive, solutions‑oriented, and innovative mindset, with an interest in crop diversification.

Why Join Us

• Lead a forward‑thinking, family‑run arable and potato enterprise with exciting opportunities for diversification.
• Drive innovation in root and vegetable cropping, contributing directly to the farm’s strategic growth.
• Manage and develop a skilled team, maximising efficiency, productivity, and job satisfaction.
• Work in a farm committed to sustainability, high‑quality production, and professional development.

B.H. Savidge & Son is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.