Job Details

About the Company:

RD Hodge and Son is a progressive, family-run farm dedicated to animal welfare, sustainability, and high-quality milk production. As a trusted supplier to M&S, we pride ourselves on maintaining exceptional standards in both animal care and production processes.

The Role:

We are looking for a Herd Manager to join our modern, well-equipped dairy farm. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to grow within a supportive and forward-thinking team.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Management: Lead and manage a team of farm workers to ensure efficient daily operations. Provide continuous training and support to help the team thrive.

Milking & Animal Care: Oversee the milking of 210 cows, ensuring high standards of hygiene and animal welfare are met. Utilize the 20/20 milking parlour with Automatic Cluster Removers (ADF) for maximum efficiency.

Animal Welfare & Monitoring: Maintain top-tier animal welfare standards, focusing on cow comfort, health, and productivity. Ensure cows are housed in sand-bedded cubicles and have access to grazing during summer, while being fed TMR year-round.

Feeding & Nutrition: Manage the cows’ diet, ensuring the TMR is properly balanced to meet the nutritional needs of each group based on yield and stage of production.

Artificial Insemination (AI): Perform AI as needed, focusing on achieving high conception rates and effective breeding practices.

Health Management: Conduct regular health checks, including foot trimming, and oversee the use of advanced technology such as the Smaxtec bolus system for health and heat alerts. Collaborate with veterinarians to address any health concerns.

Data Management: Use Uniform software to maintain accurate farm records. Monitor herd performance, health data, and breeding results to optimize efficiency and productivity.

Continuous Improvement: Work with management to identify and implement improvements in herd management practices, including leveraging technology and best practices in dairy farming.

Slurry Management: Oversee the newly installed slurry separator to ensure environmental sustainability and best practices in farm waste management.

The Package:

• Salary: £46,000 per year
• Holiday: 28 days annual leave
• Accommodation: 3-bedroom house provided

If you're an experienced Herd Manager looking to take the next step in a thriving, innovative farm, apply today to join RD Hodge and Son!