Farm Manager

Overview

Company: Private Family Office
Position: Farm Manager
Reporting to: Director of Property Management
Location: Bentonville, AR

Position Overview

A private family is seeking a dynamic, versatile, and highly motivated individual to join the team as Farm Manager for a one-acre family farm working solo. In close partnership with the Principals and Director of Properties, the Farm Manager will help execute the evolving vision for the family farm and manage all aspects of the landscape and farm operations including growing organic produce, raising and ensuring care of livestock, maintaining the farm buildings and land, and maintaining a growing and dining greenhouse. The ideal individual must be a self-starter who is service-oriented and enjoys working in a team environment that is mission and results driven.

This position requires flexibility in scheduling due to the seasonality of the role and to ensure proper care for the animals. The Farm Manager may travel domestically on a consistent or ad hoc basis (up to 10%). This position will cover one weekend day in their schedule, likely a Sunday - Thursday or Tuesday - Saturday schedule.

Key Responsibilities
- Partner with Principals, the direct report manager, and key stakeholders to execute the evolving vision for the one-acre family farm. Take the lead in bringing the farm's vision to reality by developing a operational strategy and seasonal plans.
- Create and execute a comprehensive operational plan to proactively manage all aspects of the garden and property which include crop planning, cultivation, irrigation, pest management, harvesting and processing, budget preparation and cost management, maintenance, safety, and planning and coordination with the Chef and Estate Manager. Proactively adjust plans based on seasons, weather changes, and owner requests.
- Develop and manage livestock program including but not limited to chickens, bees, sheep, rabbits, pigs, and miniature ponies. In coordination with a veterinarian, recognize symptoms and treat animals as needed. Maintain feed and watering systems and clean stalls and housing for animals. Monitor and move animals to maintain intensive rotational grazing on the fields for fertility and weed management.
- Maintain proper working order of all farm property including the garden and farm itself as well as the buildings, structures, systems, furniture, and equipment. Ensure all areas are kept clean, organized, and safe for children, animals, and pets.
- Develop a system with the Chef and Estate Manager to provide the family with fresh produce daily/weekly and utilize all produce when family members are not in residence. Effectively plan how to utilize excess produce, including canning and other forms of preservation.
- In conjunction with the Chef, develop the annual grow plan to achieve desired year round crops from the greenhouse.
- Create fun, educational activities for children to learn and be active in all aspects of the farm.
- Assist with and coordinate special events both on and off the property.
- Assist with general groundskeeping and exterior maintenance for nearby family properties.
- Continue ongoing education regarding best practices related to organic farming, seasonal production, and animal care.
- Manage and maintain a growing greenhouse and an entertaining greenhouse.
- Grow and provide fresh cut flowers.
- Experience with and knowledge of composting.
- Manage storage, proper use of, and maintenance of all garden equipment ensuring food-safe handling protocols are followed.
- Effective independently and in a semi-remote environment and remain accessible and responsive beyond business hours.
- Maintain financial expenditure receipts and input into accounting software in the required timely manner.

Characteristics for success
- Unquestionable ethics and integrity. Demonstrated ability to protect privacy and maintain discretion in dealing with highly confidential information.
- Strong organizational skills that reflect the ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with excellent attention to detail.
- Service approach with a highlighted sense of accountability, empathy, and humility.
- Self-motivated to work independently and collaboratively while displaying strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to adapt to a changing environment including reprioritization or reassignment of responsibilities.
- Highly resourceful team-player, solution-oriented, and comfortable operating with incomplete information.
- Proficient with various technology platforms - including but not limited to Microsoft Office, Macintosh OS.
- Leadership skills, good communication and decision-making skills, design sense, event coordination, vendor management, and time management.

Qualifications
- 5 years of experience with organic vegetable farming, greenhouse growing, orchard care, compost, and animal husbandry (e.g. sheep, chickens and horses).
- Demonstrated knowledge of growing healthy food and raising healthy animals in a safe environment.
- Possess a mechanical understanding such as the knowledge of machines, tools and farm equipment including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. Ability to safely operate vehicles and heavy farm machinery such as tractors, riding mowers, brush hogs, chainsaws, hauling trailers, etc.
- Comfortable with and likes children and pets.
- Ability to pass background and driving record checks. Willingness to sign a Confidentiality Agreement.
- Experience in customer service or hospitality management.

OTW Holdings is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building and maintaining a culturally diverse workplace. We encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status of protected veteran, among other things or status as a qualified individual with a disability.