Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Farm Operations Manager to oversee daily operations on all sites located in Norfolk. The Farms Operations Manager will report directly to the Founder for the safe and efficient conduct of operations at all locations where animals are under Hillside's care, with the exception of Hillside Dog Rescue which is managed as a standalone operation. The person in this role must demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities to inspire all staff to work with passion and dedication in caring for Hillside's rescued animals.
The Farm Operations Manager is to drive improvements in efficiency to conserve the limited resources of the Sanctuary and must lead by example to establish credibility and authority. He or she will be an excellent communicator and a natural motivator, able to build a strong, cohesive and supportive team. In addition, the Farms Operation Manager is to ensure compliance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements and is responsible for the logistics of the operations
Responsibilities
* To ensure that operations staff adhere to the Hillside Health and Safety policies and procedures
* To work with the Hillside Safety Adviser to investigate all incidents and unsafe situations and to ensure timely close out of any remedial actions
* To provide assurance to the Founder that the highest standards of animal care are being maintained in accordance with the ethos and values of Hillside Animal Sanctuary
* To lead briefings with all Site managers and supervisors every morning and to brief supervisors of other sites by phone every morning. The briefings are to cover matters such as safety, resource issues (staff, feed, bedding, medication etc.) animal movements, grazing, maintenance, site works etc
* To visit other sites at least once per week
* To drive continuous improvement in operations, systems and procedures to maximise effectiveness and conserve Sanctuary resources without compromising welfare standards
* To provide clear and visible leadership to problem solving, motivate staff and to build a cohesive team dedicated to improving all aspects of Hillside operations
* To work closely and support the HR Adviser on staffing matters
* To implement a management system for operations to include frequent scheduled and unscheduled inspections of all sites where operations staff are employed and to ensure meticulous records are kept of such site visits with rigorous follow up and close out of any deficiencies
* To attend and lead on all management meetings to report on issues concerning Hillside operations and to communicate relevant instructions and messages back to the operations team
* To oversee purchasing, planning and auditing in accordance with company procedures to achieve the most cost effective solutions without compromising animal care
* To negotiate with suppliers, contractors and landowners
* To ensure that all legal and regulatory documents relating to Hillside operations are filed and monitor compliance with all relevant laws and regulations
* To liaise with the Founder and managers on requirements for structural and maintenance work
* To support the H&S Adviser with the management of company vehicles used for Hillside operations
Other Responsibilities
Grazing
* To view existing and potential grazing land with the Area Supervisor
* To negotiate with land owners to secure grazing and sign off grazing contracts
* To manage any issues arising during the grazing season and to liaise with land owners and marsh checkers
* To ensure compliance with terms of each grazing contract, such as care of the land and restrictions on fencing
* To liaise with Farm administrative staff to ensure appropriate TCPH or TLA is in place to comply with grazing regulations
* To ensure effective communication between the Area Supervisor and marsh checkers to continually monitor the condition of the grazing
* To ensure appropriate selection of animals for each grazing area and to liaise with the Area Supervisor on animal movements
* To confirm that necessary checks and paperwork are in place and that animals are fit and well before being moved out to grazing Barns
* To negotiate with barn owners to secure the use of suitable barns
* To manage any issues arising in liaison with barn owners and barn checkers
* To confirm that barn owners comply with Hillside requirements regarding the care and safety of animals while on their premises
* To oversee the selection of animals and their movement to appropriate barns
* To confirm that necessary checks and paperwork are in place and that animals are fit and well before being moved into overwintering barns
* HSE
* To ensure that HSE is the first agenda item in all briefings and meetings and communicate all new safety messages to managers and supervisors
* To maintain comprehensive written records of all accidents and incidents involving operations staff and liaise with HSE adviser to ensure any learning is widely promulgated
* In the course of all inspections and site visits to confirm that operations staff are aware of relevant safety procedures, information and notices
* To ensure risk assessments are conducted when required and oversee COSHH documentation
* To liaise with HSE adviser on training matters (fire, trailer towing, first aid, JCBs etc.)
* To liaise with HSE adviser on safety aspects of structural or maintenance work
* Legal and Regulatory
* To oversee compliance with animal movement regulations
* To oversee required testing for specified animal diseases (TB, Blue Tongue, Avian 'flu etc.)
* To ensure dangerous animal licence is valid
Skills
A farm operations manager needs a combination of technical, business, and interpersonal skills, including a strong understanding of animal sanctuary practices, financial management, leadership, problem-solving, and communication.
Key responsibilities involve managing teams, overseeing budgets, and making decisions to ensure efficient sustainable operations to ensure the well being of the animals in our care to live a happy safe life.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £35,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Free parking
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person