The Farm Operations Manager takes a strategic and innovative leadership role, positioning the farm as the heart and soul of the entire operation. Beyond supplying high-quality produce, flowers and livestock products, the farm acts as a living showcase of sustainability, animal welfare and creativity, elevating the guest experience and the property’s reputation. This role drives change, implements innovations and develops the team to a new level of excellence. It combines operational efficiency with forward-thinking initiatives to increase production, diversify crops and livestock, celebrate organic practices, and continually improve the living conditions of animals—all while ensuring the farm remains an inspiring and memorable part of the guest journey.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the farm as a centre of innovation, proactively driving new methods, technologies and ideas in fruit, vegetable, livestock and flower production.
• Position the farm at the heart of the guest experience, keeping it visually outstanding and educational.
• Plan and deliver strategies to diversify production and boost sustainability, aligning output with kitchen and guest needs.
• Direct, mentor and inspire the three subdepartment managers and their teams to achieve high performance and embrace innovation.
• Oversee and optimise farm budgets, resources and schedules, ensuring cost efficiency and maximum impact.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations while continuously improving standards.
• Collaborate with guest-facing teams to design and support farm-based experiences, tours and storytelling that showcase the farm’s uniqueness.
• Monitor performance, analyse data and prepare reports with actionable recommendations for continuous improvement.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Proven leadership in managing complex farm or agricultural operations with multiple teams and disciplines.
• Strong analytical and planning ability to interpret production, financial and operational data and turn it into practical, measurable improvements.
• Proven ability to implement innovations that boost sustainability, efficiency and guest impact.
• Clear and persuasive communicator who can guide staff, collaborate with management and explain the farm’s crucial relevance to guests.
• Demonstrated experience managing budgets, resources and schedules across diverse operations.
• Formal training or degree in agriculture, animal science, agronomy or related field, supported by hands-on experience.
• In-depth knowledge of organic farming practices, animal welfare standards and sustainable production methods.
• Ability to position and manage the farm as a central element of Gibb’s Farm identity and operations.