Farming Operations Manager

Medirest Signature; Longstock; On-site; GBP 48,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A unique opportunity for a Farm Manager at The Waitrose Farm, Leckford Estate, leading farming operations and contributing strategically. Candidates should possess significant farm management experience and relevant qualifications, cultivating sustainable practices and driving operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years farm management experience.
• Relevant NPTC qualifications and BASIS qualification required.
• At least 2 years' arable management experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide operational leadership to optimise farming performance.
• Lead by example to deliver operational outcomes aligned with the plan.
• Collaborate to develop and execute annual plans.

Skills

Farm management experience

People management skills

Crop and livestock record keeping

Basic farm machinery maintenance

Education

NVQ level 4 in agriculture or related field

Degree in Agriculture

Job description

About the role

A unique opportunity to join the only UK supermarket-owned farm and lead a team that supports the future of UK farming. The Leckford Estate is a 2,800-acre LEAF demonstration farm and diverse business where the Farm Manager will lead the farming operation and influence the wider Waitrose organisation.

• Salary: £48,300 - £65,000

• Contract type: Permanent

• Location: The role is based at The Waitrose Farm, Leckford Estate, Hampshire.

Key responsibilities

Provide operational leadership to optimise the performance of Waitrose & Partners Farming enterprises, exemplify Regenerative Farm Management, and align with Waitrose Farming For Nature commitments. Contribute to the Leckford strategic plan, ensuring connection between strategy and operational priorities.

Work in an agile, innovative, and cross-functional manner as an effective operational leader.

Lead by example with a focus on delivering operational outcomes aligned with the Leckford plan and purpose.

Collaborate locally and across the business to deliver annual plans. Develop personally and professionally to maximize potential across the estate and in farming operations including Beef, Arable, Fruit, and Vines.

Essential skills/experience

• Minimum of 5 years farm management experience
• NVQ level 4 (HND level) in agriculture or related field
• Full driving licence
• Relevant NPTC qualifications (e.g., safe use of telescopic handler, ATV, livestock medicines)
• BASIS qualification
• At least 2 years' arable management experience, including grain store management
• At least 3 years' ruminant livestock husbandry experience, preferably cattle
• People management skills
• Experience in crop and livestock record keeping and management information reporting (preferably on Omnia software)
• Basic farm machinery maintenance skills

Desirable skills/experience

• Degree in Agriculture
• Experience with organic, IFM, or regenerative farming practices
• FACTS & BASIS certifications

About The Partnership

We are the largest employee-owned business in the UK, home to John Lewis and Waitrose. As Partners, we share ownership, responsibility, and rewards, working together to create a positive environment where everyone can thrive.

Additional notes

Some roles may require pre-employment vetting, including DBS checks. We encourage prompt application as vacancies may close early due to high demand. We support flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance and invite discussion with the hiring manager during the interview process.