Deputy Farm Manager – Organic Agricultural Farming & Livestock

Confidential Company

Job Description – Deputy Farm Manager

Job Title

Deputy Farm Manager – Organic Agricultural Farming & Livestock

Reports to

Farm Manager

Objectives of the Role

The Deputy Farm Manager will support the Farm Manager in overseeing day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives for our organic agriculture and livestock farms. This role requires hands-on expertise in horticulture, livestock management, forage production, poultry operations, butchery, and agricultural research & development (R&D). The Deputy Farm Manager will work closely with the Farm Manager to ensure operational excellence, compliance with organic standards, and continuous improvement in productivity, quality, and sustainability.

Key Competencies required

• Organic Farming & Sustainable Practices
• Horticulture Management
• Livestock & Animal Welfare Management
• Forage Production
• Poultry & Butchery Operations
• Farm Operations Management
• Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE)
• Resource and Budget Management
• Research & Development (R&D) in Agriculture
• Greenhouse management
• Leadership & Team Management
• QA & Compliance
• Financial Management
• Communication skills

Key Job Responsibilities

• Farm Operations Management:
• Assist the Farm Manager in overseeing all aspects of daily farm activities, including crop production, livestock, poultry, forage production, and greenhouse operations.
• Oversee the management of greenhouses, ensuring optimal growing conditions for soft and hard vegetables and fruits.
• Develop and implement efficient farming practices to maximize yield and maintain soil health.
• Ensure compliance with organic certification standards and sustainable farming practices.

• Crop Production:
• Plan, coordinate, and manage the planting, cultivation, and harvesting of organic crops.
• Monitor crop health and implement pest and disease management strategies using organic methods.
• Manage irrigation systems and soil fertility programs to optimize crop growth.

• Livestock Management:
• Oversee the care, feeding, breeding, and health management of all farm animals, including cows, goats, sheep, poultry, and honeybees at present.
• Oversee the honey production, beekeeping operations.
• Implement and monitor animal welfare standards, ensuring humane and ethical treatment of livestock.
• Monitor poultry operations, egg production, and meat processing in line with hygiene and organic standards.
• Support butchery operations, ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and ethical handling standards.
• Develop and maintain breeding programs to sustain and improve livestock quality.
• Manage milk production, including the operations of the creamery and cheese production.

• Forage & Feed Production:
• Develop and manage forage production programs to ensure a sustainable and cost-effective feed supply for livestock and poultry

• Research & Development:
• Collaborate on R&D initiatives to improve crop varieties, livestock breeds, and production methods.
• Introduce innovative farming practices and evaluate new technologies for productivity and quality improvement.

• Team Leadership and Development:
• Lead, train, and supervise a team of farm workers.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, promoting teamwork and professional growth.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback.

• Resource and Budget Management:
• Manage farm budgets, including labor, equipment, supplies, and other operational costs.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of farm equipment and facilities.
• Ensure efficient use of resources to minimize waste and optimize productivity.

• Reporting and Documentation:
• Maintain detailed records of farm operations, including crop yields, livestock health, and resource usage.
• Prepare and present regular reports on farm performance to the Head of Farm.
• Ensure accurate documentation for organic certification and compliance audits.

Reporting Structure

Incumbent will report to Farm Manager

Personal Attributes

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Agronomy, Animal Science, or a related field with 15+ years of proven experience in which 5+ years in leadership role within the organic farming and livestock management, preferably from Europe region.
• Proven expertise in horticulture, livestock, forage production, poultry, butchery, and agricultural R&D.
• Strong knowledge of organic farming principles and practices in Agriculture and Livestock management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Comfortable working with livestock and handling large animals.
• Preparedness to work extended hours, including weekends and holidays, as required by farm activities.
• Willingness to work in various weather conditions and adapt to the dynamic nature of farm operations.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment, respecting diverse perspectives and practices.
• Primarily outdoor work on a farm setting.