A farm manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a farm. This includes managing staff, planning and organising planting and harvesting schedules, handling budgets and accounts, and ensuring the health and welfare of animals or crops. Farm managers use modern technology and sustainable practices to maximise productivity and profitability while protecting the environment. They may work on arable farms, livestock farms, or mixed farms, and often liaise with suppliers, buyers, and regulatory bodies. The role can be demanding and may require working long hours, especially during busy periods like harvest.
Farm managers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £45,000 per year, with highly experienced managers earning up to £70,000.
There are around 57,000 farm managers and proprietors working in the UK agricultural sector as of 2023.
The sector faces skills shortages, with an estimated 20 percent of farm managers expected to retire by 2030, increasing demand for new entrants.
Oversees the daily operations of a dairy farm, including managing livestock, milk production, and staff supervision.
Responsible for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, barley, and oilseed rape, managing planting, harvesting, and crop rotation.
Manages a farm that produces food using organic methods, focusing on sustainability, soil health, and meeting organic certification standards.
Choose subjects like biology, geography, and business studies to build a strong foundation for a career in agriculture.
Taking science subjects, especially biology, will help you understand plant and animal life cycles, which are crucial for farming. Business studies will give you an edge in managing farm finances and operations. Some schools also offer courses in environmental science or rural studies, which are highly relevant.
Look into post-16 options such as A-levels, BTECs, or diplomas in agriculture, land management, or related areas.
Further education at college can include courses in agriculture, animal management, or horticulture. These courses combine theory with hands-on experience, which is valuable for understanding the practicalities of farm work.
Get part-time, holiday, or voluntary work on a local farm to develop practical skills and gain insight into daily routines.
Working on a farm will allow you to learn about animal care, crop management, and machinery operation. Many farms are open to taking on young people looking for work experience, especially during busy seasons like harvest time.
Look for agricultural apprenticeships, which offer paid, hands-on training while you study for qualifications.
Apprenticeships are a great way to earn while you learn. You will gain practical skills, a qualification, and often a job offer at the end. Check with your local college or the government apprenticeship website for opportunities in your area.
Consider a degree or diploma in agriculture, farm business management, or a related subject.
Many universities and agricultural colleges offer degrees in agriculture, land management, or farm business management. These courses cover key areas such as finance, supply chain, sustainability, and leadership, preparing you for management roles.
Take on supervisory roles or additional responsibilities at work to build your leadership skills.
You could become a team leader, manage small projects, or help train new staff. These experiences will help you develop the communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills needed for farm management.
Use your education and experience to apply for farm manager roles, or consider progressing within your current workplace.
Farm manager jobs are advertised by agricultural recruitment agencies, farming unions, and directly on farm websites. You may also progress from an assistant manager or supervisor role within a farm you already work for.
Stay up-to-date with agricultural trends and regulations by attending courses and joining professional organisations.
Membership in organisations like the National Farmers Union or the Institute of Agricultural Management can provide networking opportunities, training, and industry updates. Continuous learning will help you adapt to new technologies and best practices in farming.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Farm Manager. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Farm Manager oversees the daily operations of a farm, including managing staff, resources, and production processes, which closely aligns with the responsibilities of a Farmer. Both roles require hands-on agricultural knowledge, leadership skills, and the ability to optimise farm productivity.
You can get into this job through:
You could take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
Courses and qualifications are available at agricultural colleges and universities.
You'll usually need:
You could do a course at agricultural college to learn some of the skills you'll need to start your career in farming.
Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply to do an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship, for example:
You could also apply to do an Assistant Farm Manager Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship, if you want to work in farm management.
You'll usually need:
You could get management experience by working as a supervisor, unit manager or assistant manager before moving into farm management.
Farmers work long hours especially during busy periods, such as lambing season and harvest time.
You could become a member of the National Farmers Union (NFU) to keep up to date with developments in the farming industry.
The National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs also supports young people in agricultural work and those interested in rural life.
You could join to:
You can get more information about farming careers from:
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