General Manager

A large family-run and innovative farm in the North of Ireland is seeking a General Manager to take full responsibility for the daily management of the farm’s large herd of cows and its high-performing, robotic and fully housed environment, with a clear focus on scaling these operations to become one of the best in the sector. The General Manager does not need to come from a farming or agricultural background; however, the right person must have excellent leadership, management, adaptability, ambition, vision, and be able to be hands-on where necessary. Role benefits include accommodation, a company vehicle, and a performance-related bonus.

Applications from ex-military personnel are strongly encouraged

Key Responsibilities:

Oversee all aspects of managing a large herd of cows and its operations, with a strategic focus on scaling up these operations

Drive productivity and efficiency in all herd-related operations

Lead herd planning initiatives to optimise the farm throughout the year

Organise and oversee in-house services that contribute to optimal herd health and fertility

Recruit, train, and manage a growing team, fostering a culture of excellence, responsibility and continuous improvement

Set performance standards and review team development, ensuring the right structures are in place to support expansion and innovation

Be familiar with Lean and passionate towards a Continuous Improvement mindset for yourself and team development

Lead by example, championing best practices in animal care, hygiene, and safety

Monitor herd health, liaising closely with vets, nutritionists, and external advisors to ensure top-tier care

Ensure full compliance with Irish and EU regulations, maintaining strict biosecurity, hygiene, and welfare standards

Keep accurate and timely records to meet audit requirements, including medicine usage, treatments, and welfare checks

Maintain and oversee the efficient operation of robotic milking systems and related infrastructure, with hands-on problem-solving as needed

Monitor digital herd management systems to track performance, health, and productivity KPIs

Ensure infrastructure is well-maintained and scalable to support future growth plans

Take full financial responsibility for the dairy enterprise

Report regularly to senior management, providing detailed operational and financial performance updates

Evaluate cost-effectiveness and identify opportunities for improved efficiencies or returns on investment

Knowledge, skills and qualifications:

Essential:

Proven experience successfully managing teams and operations

Strong leadership, motivational, and staff development skills

High proficiency in interpreting data and performance metrics to inform decision-making

Is ambitious, adaptable, and can have a hands-on approach

Strong organisational and problem-solving skills, with a forward-thinking, proactive approach

Full, clean driving licence

Desirable:

Qualifications or experience in Agriculture, Animal Science, or a related field

Mechanical aptitude for robotic system troubleshooting and preventive maintenance

Understanding of fertility management, animal health, and welfare in a high-output, non-seasonal system

Salary: £45,000 to £60,000 DOE

Benefits: Vehicle, accommodation, performance-related bonus, professional development opportunities