Assistant Manager -Farm

February 2020 May 2022

Over the course of the last two years I have been an intrinsic asset, with my unrelenting work ethic being instrumental to the smooth running of the operation. Working directly with the owner manager, I have overseen all aspects of the business and been a key support in all the endeavours to expand the business. This has been a especially important over the pandemic period with the usual revenue outlets being limited.

Working at an egg suppliershas led to me gaining an extensive knowledge of the intricacies of running a modern farming business. As a free range egg enterprise that supplied eggs throughout Berkshire and adjoining counties, we supplied a premium product to the consumer which ranged from local shops to Michelin starred restaurants. I have been instrumental in ensuring the highest standard of bird welfare and delivering a product which meets the consumers high expectation and meeting the standard of an accredited assurance scheme. As well as the farming side of the business, I have also directed and managed a team of egg grading/packaging staff. It has been especially important during the pandemic to connect and empathise with these people in order to get the best out of them as a team. I have had to adapt to an ever transient staffing situation, stepping up to do many different jobs which were not initially expected of me. Working in Agriculture is, of course, a big commitment of both time and energy. Whilst working at the egg suppliers, I have consistently demonstrated this commitment as is evidenced by my 100% attendance record.

(Grain Merchants): 16 months Full time grain trader, building and maintaining a relationship with a range of clients over the Yorkshire region. Buying and selling commodity crops as well as seeking new opportunities for the business to expand into other areas of merchanting. I was given full responsibility of ensuring the Trade Assurance Audit was passed. Mixed Farm (3 month placement) Regular work on a mixed farm, with sole responsibility of the farm given to me on a number of occasions. I have used a varied amount of equipment including, tractors, sprayers, welding equipment. Also undertook the construction of a stable block, which required skills including brick laying and concreting. La Cuccagna: Agriturismo 2 Months of voluntary olive harvesting in Italy, requiring me to use harvesting equipment and working long hours without financial gain. Lambing placement 6 week lambing placement on a Welsh hill farm, isolated work requiring me to problem solve and access livestock needs as well as having the responsibility for all aspects of lambing.