Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced, driven, and hands-on Dairy Manager to lead the daily operations of our progressive dairy enterprise. This is an exciting opportunity for a proven leader to play a key role in managing a modern dairy farm featuring a brand-new 74 bail rotary milking parlour. This farm will run in a full all year-round milking rotation.
Operating in a fast-paced environment, the successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the efficient running of the dairy unit while maintaining the highest standards of animal health, welfare, and team performance. This role requires someone who is confident making decisions, leading by example, and motivating a large team of staff to achieve operational goals.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in dairy farming, previous experience in a dairy management position, and the ability to combine practical farming knowledge with excellent organisational and people management skills. They will be passionate about continuous improvement, embracing modern farming practices, and maintaining high standards across all areas of the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the day-to-day operation of the dairy enterprise, including the new Pearson rotary milking parlour.
- Lead, supervise, and motivate a large team of staff, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard.
- Plan and coordinate daily workloads, staff rotas, and operational priorities.
- Foster a positive team culture through effective leadership, communication, and training.
- Ensure the smooth and efficient operation of all milking procedures while maintaining excellent milk quality standards.
- Take responsibility for calf registration and accurate livestock record keeping.
- Implement and oversee dosing, vaccination, and herd health protocols in conjunction with the farm's veterinary programme.
- Monitor herd performance and identify opportunities to improve productivity and efficiency.
- Maintain high standards of animal health, welfare, hygiene, and biosecurity.
- Ensure compliance with all farm safety, quality assurance, and regulatory requirements.
- Assist with budgeting, resource planning, and the ongoing development of the dairy operation.
Essential Requirements
- Previous dairy farm experience is essential.
- Proven experience in a dairy management or supervisory role is essential.
- Demonstrated ability to successfully lead and manage a large team of staff.
- Excellent organisational, leadership, and communication skills.
- Experience operating or managing a rotary milking parlour is highly desirable, or the ability to quickly adapt to modern milking systems.
- Strong knowledge of dairy herd management, animal health, nutrition, and welfare.
- Experience managing calf registrations and livestock records.
- Clear understanding of dosing, vaccination, and herd health protocols.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
- A proactive attitude with excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Full driving licence.
Desirable Skills
- Experience using dairy herd management software.
- AI breeding and fertility management experience.
- Machinery operating experience.
- Knowledge of grassland management and feed planning.
What We Offer
- A competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
- The opportunity to lead a progressive dairy operation equipped with a brand-new Pearson rotary milking parlour.
- A supportive and professional working environment.
- The opportunity to work with modern technology and progressive farming practices.
- Long-term career progression for the right candidate within a growing business.
- Accommodation can be provided if necessary.
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
