CV Ref No. CV Reference No. - 34335

Highly experienced shepherd with 40 years of expertise in sheep breeding and flock management

Qualifications and Experience
Relevant qualifications

NCA

Type of farming wanted

Mainly Livestock

Other qualifications

PA1 Chemicals, PA2 Spraying, PA6 Knapsack spraying, Chainsaw certificate, Forklift certificate, Quadbike certificate, Animal transport, Dipping, Blue seal shearing. Current shotgun and fire arms certificates. Full driving licence.

Driving Licence

Full Car Licence, Tractor Licence

Equipment experience

Tractor, Combine, Baler, Ploughing, PA1, PA2, Telehandler/Fork Lift, Fencing

Livestock experience

Beef, Sheep, Lambing, Calving

Other equipment experience

Fencing, hay and silage making , harvesting , cultivations , fertilizing and spraying.

Other livestock experience

I am a highly experienced shepherd with over 40 years of expertise in sheep breeding and flock management. I possesses a deep knowledge and passion for rare breeds, particularly Oxford Down. I have a proven track record of success in improving lambing rates and reducing mortality through solutions. I demonstrates a strong work ethic, collaborative spirit, and a commitment to sustainable practices. I am eager to share knowledge and explore opportunities to contribute to the field.

Personal information
Sex

Male

Other Information

None

Age

60

Marital status

I have a long-time partner, Debs, and three children, three working dogs and one cocker spaniel.

Nationality

British

Where are you currently living?

Exter

First language

English

Do you have the right to work in the UK?

Yes

Other languages

-

Hobbies

•Council member of the Oxford Down Sheep (2007-present) and Clun Forest Breeders (1996-present) Association •Served as the President of the Oxford Down Sheep Association 2018

Pen picture (Height, weight etc.)

5ft 11 15stone Fit and active.

Relevant health problems

None

Farming background

I was born into farming and started my practice as a young boy having come from a farming background and my father being a shepherd.

I am a highly experienced shepherd with 40 years of expertise in sheep breeding and flock management. I possess a deep knowledge and passion for rare breeds, particularly Oxford Down and the Clun Forrest. I have a proven track record of success in improving lambing rates and reducing mortality this demonstrates my strong work ethic, collaborative spirit, and commitment to sustainable practices. I am enthusiastic about mentoring future generations and fostering responsible sheep husbandry. I am eager to share knowledge and explore opportunities to contribute to the field.

When I first started at ************ Research, I identified a worming issue in the Suffolk Cross flock. The flock exhibited high resistance to conventional wormers, leading to increased worming and showing potential health concerns. Through research and worm resistance trials. I advocated for the introduction of Exlana sheep, known for their natural tolerance to worms. The successful transition not only addressed the initial worming issue but also contributed to improved animal health and reduced overall costs.

During my time at ****** Park, I spearheaded the programming and implementation of embryo transplant and AI techniques with Highlanders and Primeras imported from New Zealand. I managed a flock of Highlanders, Primeras, and 50 pedigree Oxford Downs, optimizing feeding strategies leading all aspects of breeding, from selection for breeding, show, and sale to acquiring new breeding lines. I effectively managed the lambing process, coordinating with vet students and utilizing the Shearwell EID system for lamb identification and pedigree tracking. Moreover, I implemented annual health plans in collaboration with a vet, ensuring proper vaccination, shearing, parasite control, foot care, and crutching. Additionally, I handled all administrative tasks related to sheepkeeping and successfully exported pedigree sheep to Europe. My dedication extended beyond flock management, as I mentored and guided agricultural and veterinary students during their placements, fostering essential practical skillsandknowledge.

EXPERIENCE

Shepherd Technician ********** Research 2018- PRESENT

Successfully oversaw the transition of the flock from Suffolk Cross to Exlana sheep, ensuring a smooth adaptation.

Managing a flock of 300 Exlana sheep, utilizing Primera rams as terminal sires.

Collecting samples for data to contribute to scientific advancements.

Performed daily stock tasks, including operating the feeder wagon, straw chopping and scraping out for cattle and sheep.

Assisting with haymaking, silaging, harvesting, and operating the grain cart.

Utilized animal tracking software, Agriweb to effectively manage sheep medical and movement records and monitor animal performance.

****** Park Farm - Head Shepard 2004-2018

Been required to organise the programming of embryo transplant, and AI using Highlanders and Primeras from New Zealand.

Overseeing Highlanders, Primeras, and 50 pedigree Oxford Downs.

Optimised feeding strategies, including pasture rotation and finishing lambs on root crops (using electric fencing).

Led all aspects of breeding, from selecting stock for breeding, show, and sale to acquiring new breeding lines.

Managed the lambing process, including coordinating with vet students, and utilizing the Shearwell EID system for lamb identification and pedigree tracking.

Implemented annual health plans in collaboration with a vet, ensuring proper vaccination, shearing, parasite control, foot care, and crutching.

Handled all administrative tasks related to sheepkeeping and export of pedigree sheep to Europe.

Mentored and guided agricultural and veterinary students during their placements, fostering practical skills and knowledge.

****** ***** Estate 1998-2004

Responsible for 800 commercial sheep and 100 suckler cows, finishing all the stock on the farm.

Overseeing the conversion to organic.

***** ***** Farm 1991-1998

Self-employed, working with sheep, and beef.

Stock fencing, shearing, and tractor operations.

Adviser to a small shepherds club committee regularly presenting seminars and running workshops on all aspects of sheep husbandry.

***** ********** 1983-1991

Managing sheep, suckler beef, and all duties concerning the welfare of livestock.

Ensured responsible forestry maintenance and deer management.

Responsible for the daily care of birds, including feeding, watering, vermin control, pen maintenance, and dog handling, ensuring their well-being.

Responsible for the daily care of birds, including feeding, watering, vermin control and pen maintenance.

******* ********* 1982-1983

Oversaw the care and breeding of 400 sheep.

Successfully finished 150 head of beef cattle.

Preferences
Availability

Start: 01/04/2024 Finish: Not Specified

Preferred region

South West

Type of job

Permanent

Where would you like to work?

I am willing to relocate

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