Are you passionate about animal husbandry and achieving top breeding performance? We are seeking an experienced and motivated Breeding Herd Manager to lead the breeding and farrowing operations of our well-established and high performing breeding and finishing unit running 450 sows outdoors with conventional indoor finishing facilities on the outskirts of Christchurch
About the Role
As Breeding Herd Manager, you will take responsibility for the performance and day-to-day management of our breeding herd. You will lead a small team and work closely with our farm manager to achieve production targets while maintaining high standards of animal welfare, health, and biosecurity.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all AI mating, gestation, farrowing, and weaning activities
- Manage artificial insemination programmes and maintain accurate breeding, production, and compliance records
- Monitor and improve reproductive performance and herd productivity
- Monitor feed intake, body condition, and sow performance
- Assist with farm planning, performance reporting, and production targets
- Ensure all work is carried out safely and efficiently
- Maintain high standards of welfare, environmental management, and biosecurity standards
- Have a proactive approach to farm Health & Safety.
What We're Looking For
- Experience managing a commercial pig breeding operation
- Strong understanding of sow management, farrowing, and piglet care
- Excellent stockmanship and attention to detail
- Leadership experience and the ability to manage, motivate, and develop staff
- Good communication and record-keeping skills
- A commitment to animal welfare, health, and safety
- Competency with EliteHerd software an advantage
- Valid New Zealand driver's licence.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary package based on experience
- On-farm accommodation may be available
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
- A supportive team environment
- The opportunity to play a key role in the operation of our established ‘birth to bacon’ system.
Location
- Conveniently located between Rolleston and Christchurch, our operation is a very easy commute from either
- This makes it ideal for applicants who may already have homes and families established in wider Christchurch or central Canterbury, or who have a partner who is also seeking employment opportunities in our growing region
Apply Now
- If you have the experience, enthusiasm, and leadership skills to drive breeding herd performance, then we'd love to hear from you
- All positions may be subject to drug and alcohol testing and/or a criminal record check
- Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa
- Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role.
