Farm & Conservation Manager

Do you believe that nature friendly farming, ecological regeneration and inspiring visitor experiences can work hand in hand?

Are you a confident, hands on leader who thrives in a practical, people centred environment?

We’re looking for an experienced and values driven Farm & Conservation Manager to take a pivotal leadership role at Woodlands Farm – an 89acre working farm and community resource on Shooters Hill in London.

This is a permanent, full-time position working 37.7 hours per week, including occasional weekends and seasonal peaks.

About the role

This is a high impact, hands on role where you’ll lead the day today operation of a mixed livestock farm, manage species rich grassland and hedgerows, and support a large volunteer community. You’ll set the standard for excellent animal welfare, ecological stewardship and safe working practices, while helping shape the future direction of the farm as it embarks on major ecological regeneration and infrastructure development.

Working closely with trustees, staff and community partners, you’ll deliver key Countryside Stewardship, Levy and Esmée Fairbairn programmes, strengthen the farm’s public profile, and contribute to long-term strategic planning.

What you’ll be responsible for

• Leading all aspects of livestock welfare, husbandry, breeding and health monitoring across cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry and bees
• Managing the safe, efficient day today running of an 89acre working farm with high public footfall
• Delivering conservation and land management work, including species rich grassland, hedgerows, ponds and agroforestry
• Inspiring, coordinating and supporting a large volunteer community
• Supporting engaging visitor experiences, demonstrations, school visits and public events
• Ensuring robust compliance with animal welfare, health & safety, environmental and regulatory requirements
• Contributing to strategic planning, ecological regeneration programmes, budget management and operational improvement
• Helping raise the profile of the farm through excellent events, visitor engagement and a strong online presence

Who we’re looking for

You’ll bring strong livestock management experience, sound judgement and the confidence to lead in a live, visitor facing environment. Equally important is your ability to motivate volunteers, work collaboratively with partners, and lead with professionalism, empathy and integrity.

We welcome applicants with a mix of farming, conservation and community focused experience. You don’t need to meet every requirement — we value potential, transferable skills and a willingness to learn.

Why join The Woodlands Farm Trust?

You’ll be part of a purpose driven charity committed to nature friendly farming, ecological regeneration and community education. You’ll help shape the next decade of development for one of London’s largest and most distinctive city farms, supported by a dedicated team, longstanding volunteers and major new investment in ecological work.

If this role excites you and you believe you could make a positive contribution, we’d love to hear from you — even if you don’t meet every requirement.