Farm Manager

We’re currently recruiting for a Farm Manager to join the Kia Ora Stud team.

This is a key leadership role with one of Australia’s foremost thoroughbred operations and we’re looking for someone who’s adept at leading people, operations, and farm strategy with a hands-on, sleeves up approach.

Situated just 15 minutes from Scone in NSW’s Hunter Valley region, Kia Ora is one of Australia’s most successful and progressive thoroughbred operations. An exciting opportunity to join the team in a full-time farm manager role has become available. This role oversees Kia Ora’s extensive landholdings of over 1110 hectares including horse paddocks, lucerne, grazing land and gardens.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience in the agricultural or horticultural industries and be experienced in the use of machinery and maintenance equipment.

Why work with us?
Attractive salary package including participation in employee bonus scheme
High quality on-farm accommodation with garden maintenance and utilities provided
Fully maintained motor vehicle
Additional benefits and support

Reporting directly to the General Manager, and working closely with the Breeding and Bloodstock team, you will oversee day-to-day farm operations and lead a capable team of farm hands and gardeners. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys coaching, delivering as a part of a team and is committed to the continued success of our farm.

Your key responsibilities will include:
Manage all aspects of farm operations including building, fencing and property maintenance to maintain the high standards we pride ourselves on.
Managing our cattle operation and our lucerne and grass supply
Provide a proactive, hands-on leadership approach that supports accountability, teamwork, training and a positive can-do culture.
Lead farm health and safety, including toolbox meetings, hazard management, and reporting.
Prepare and manage maintenance and capital expenditure and budgets including planning, quoting, contractor management and keeping our fencing, gardens, barns, plant and vehicles in good order.
Maintain accurate maintenance, rosters, inventory and OHS, and other regulatory compliance obligations related to farm operations.

You’ll bring a strong background in farm operations ideally with Horse Stud experience. You will have a genuine interest in leading and developing teams -working from the paddocks and not a desk. You will enjoy working with others across the business to ensure the continued success of our breeding operations through pasture management, property and equipment maintenance.

You’ll also demonstrate:
Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior farm management role or equivalent, preferably within thoroughbred operations.
A great attention to detail and pride in your work
A practical, hands-on approach combined with the ability to lead, collaborate, and develop others.
Sound operational management skills.
Experience in farm machinery and maintenance equipment
Confident communication, planning, and problem-solving skills.
Commitment to safe work practices, growth and continuous improvement.
Computer literacy: experience with Microsoft and Ardex is desirable.
Category A & B Firearms licence or ability to obtain one
Appropriate accreditations usual for this role: Chemcert, chainsaw, working at heights etc
Relevant tertiary or agricultural qualifications preferred.