Farm Manager
Westacombe Ltd
Lead the day-to-day. Shape the future. Make your mark.
Westacombe Ltd is seeking a capable and motivated Farm Manager to lead the day-to-day operation of our established South Canterbury sheep, beef and dairy-grazing business.
Operating across approximately 1,500 effective hectares of rolling downs and hill country and carrying around 10,000 stock units, Westacombe offers genuine scale, variety and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
This role would suit an experienced Farm Manager or a capable Stock Manager or 2IC ready to step up into farm management.
The Role:
Reporting to the owners, who work externally, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day performance of the farming operation, including:
Livestock management and achievement of animal-performance targets
Pasture management, feed budgeting and seasonal grazing plans
Planning and implementing breeding, finishing and animal-health programmes
Leading and coordinating permanent and casual farm staff
Managing contractors, machinery and farm infrastructure, including planning and prioritising maintenance, repairs and property improvements
Maintaining strong health and safety, animal-welfare and compliance standards
Monitoring expenditure against agreed budgets and making practical, cost-conscious decisions
Maintaining accurate farm records and providing regular reporting on progress, performance, emerging risks and opportunities
You will have appropriate autonomy over day-to-day farming decisions within agreed farm plans, budgets and business priorities. The owners provide clear strategic direction and value initiative, open communication and practical solutions.
About You:
You will be a skilled stock person with sound pasture and feed-management capability. You will enjoy planning ahead, leading others and taking ownership of results.
Ideally, you will bring:
Strong sheep and beef experience
Dairy-grazing experience or an interest in developing it
Experience as a Stock Manager, 2IC or Farm Manager
A capable team of working dogs
Strong organisation, communication and record-keeping skills
A proactive approach to maintenance, farm presentation and continuous property improvement
Sound judgement, initiative and commercial awareness
A positive attitude and commitment to being part of a high-performing team
Most importantly, you will be dependable, motivated and ready to take responsibility for moving the farming operation forward.
What We Offer:
A genuine farm-management opportunity with meaningful responsibility
Competitive remuneration
A modern, warm family home
Support for an appropriate team of working dogs
On-farm benefits
A property conveniently located near a school-bus route and approximately 30 minutes from town
Support and professional development for someone looking to grow into the role
If you are ready to step up, take ownership and make your mark within a substantial South Canterbury farming business, we would like to hear from you.
Please apply with your CV and a brief covering letter to westacombeltd@outlook.com.