Equestrian Centre Manager – Rare & Exciting Opportunity
Shardeloes Farm Equestrian Centre in England
- Type
- Stable yard manager and Equestrian admin
- FT/PT
- Full Time
- Accommodation
- Included
- Horse
- Allowed
- Description
- Equestrian Centre Manager – Rare & Exciting Opportunity Location: Shardeloes Farm, Buckinghamshire Salary: Competitive / On Application Hours: Full-time, 45 hours per week (weekend work required) Leave: 28 days annual leave Contract: Permanent Training: CPD / BHS Training provided Accommodation: Available Own Horse: Possibility to bring own horse About the Opportunity We are delighted to offer a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced, passionate, and driven individual to join the Shardeloes Farm team as our Equestrian Centre Manager. We are proud of being able to protect and enhance the stunning Chiltern Hills countryside where Shardeloes Farm is based, we seek to create an oasis for many within the safe confines of 550 acres of outstanding natural beauty. We have been recognised within the Equestrian industry for offering the highest standards of accreditation through the British Horse Society and we are now seeking a visionary Equestrian Centre Manager to lead the next chapter of our journey. Our goals for growth are built around our values of wanting to make a difference to the people who visit our farm and the programme’s and activities we will add to our 2025/26 plans will not only enhance our existing offer and deliver robust growth in challenging times but even more importantly will be changing lives for the better. Reporting to the Managing Director, the ECM will play a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day running of our thriving riding school and five livery yards. The ideal candidate will bring a combination of BHS expertise, strong business acumen, exceptional leadership, and a deep commitment to horse welfare. Key Responsibilities Business Management Oversee the daily operations of a busy riding school and livery across five stable blocks. Manage relationships with clients, liveries, and staff, ensuring clear and professional communication. Maintain accurate records for invoicing and systems including ECPro, SAGE, and others. Prepare and present monthly and quarterly financial reports, ensuring adherence to budgets and procurement policies. Identify areas for business improvement and growth through regular reviews. Support the MD in delivering the 2025/26 Growth Plan, including: *Changing Lives Through Horses *Becoming a BHS Stage 1 & 2 Exam Centre *Expanding Pony Club and Social Calendar *Creating new Horse Experience offerings (holidays, events, etc.) *Exploring retail opportunities Horse Care & Welfare Ensure the highest standards of horse care, including appropriate feeding, turnout, rugging, and exercise. Coordinate all farrier, veterinary, dental, and routine health services. Oversee yard supplies (feed, bedding, equipment) and stock management. Manage pasture use, rotation, and field rest schedules. Drive the 3.5-tonne horsebox as required. Lead on any horse purchasing or leasing decisions. Staff Leadership & Development Manage, mentor, and motivate a team of staff across all yards. Collaborate with Yard Managers and Supervisors to ensure ongoing training and performance support. Ensure staff schedules provide adequate cover for all areas including reception and events. Uphold compliance with HR legislation in collaboration with the HR and Accounts team. Lead regular staff meetings and promote effective communication. Oversee and deliver BHS training across the team. Health, Safety & Compliance Maintain up-to-date health & safety procedures and deliver regular training. Ensure ongoing compliance with all regulatory bodies including BHS, local council, insurers, and exam providers. Seek new accreditations and implement improvements aligned with industry best practice. Client Relationships & Communications Foster a welcoming and communicative environment for clients and liveries. Organise client and livery events to build community and gather feedback. Ensure the website and communications (e.g., newsletters, digital marketing) are regularly updated and aligned with the marketing plan. Support the MD with other business development initiatives and projects as required. What We’re Looking For Essential Requirements Minimum 5 years' experience in a similar management role within the equestrian sector. Must hold a minimum BHS Stage 5. Strong leadership, integrity, communication, and interpersonal skills. Proven track record in managing riding schools and livery operations. In-depth knowledge of horse welfare and yard management. Financial literacy with experience using MS Office, SAGE, and EC software platforms. Confident rider and experienced trainer with ability to work with a variety of horses. Organised, punctual, and committed to high standards. UK driving licence and ability to drive a 3.5-tonne horsebox. Right to live and work in the UK. To Apply Please email your CV and cover letter explaining your interest in the role to Equestrian Centre Manager – Rare & Exciting Opportunity Location: Shardeloes Farm, Buckinghamshire Salary: Competitive / On Application Hours: Full-time, 45 hours per week (weekend work required) Leave: 28 days annual leave Contract: Permanent Training: CPD / BHS Training provided Accommodation: Available Own Horse: Possibility to bring own horse About the Opportunity We are delighted to offer a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced, passionate, and driven individual to join the Shardeloes Farm team as our Equestrian Centre Manager. We are proud of being able to protect and enhance the stunning Chiltern Hills countryside where Shardeloes Farm is based, we seek to create an oasis for many within the safe confines of 550 acres of outstanding natural beauty. We have been recognised within the Equestrian industry for offering the highest standards of accreditation through the British Horse Society and we are now seeking a visionary Equestrian Centre Manager to lead the next chapter of our journey. Our goals for growth are built around our values of wanting to make a difference to the people who visit our farm and the programme’s and activities we will add to our 2025/26 plans will not only enhance our existing offer and deliver robust growth in challenging times but even more importantly will be changing lives for the better. Reporting to the Managing Director, the ECM will play a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day running of our thriving riding school and five livery yards. The ideal candidate will bring a combination of BHS expertise, strong business acumen, exceptional leadership, and a deep commitment to horse welfare. Key Responsibilities Business Management Oversee the daily operations of a busy riding school and livery across five stable blocks. Manage relationships with clients, liveries, and staff, ensuring clear and professional communication. Maintain accurate records for invoicing and systems including ECPro, SAGE, and others. Prepare and present monthly and quarterly financial reports, ensuring adherence to budgets and procurement policies. Identify areas for business improvement and growth through regular reviews. Support the MD in delivering the 2025/26 Growth Plan, including: Changing Lives Through Horses Becoming a BHS Stage 1 & 2 Exam Centre Expanding Pony Club and Social Calendar Creating new Horse Experience offerings (holidays, events, etc.) Exploring retail opportunities Horse Care & Welfare Ensure the highest standards of horse care, including appropriate feeding, turnout, rugging, and exercise. Coordinate all farrier, veterinary, dental, and routine health services. Oversee yard supplies (feed, bedding, equipment) and stock management. Manage pasture use, rotation, and field rest schedules. Drive the 3.5-tonne horsebox as required. Lead on any horse purchasing or leasing decisions. Staff Leadership & Development Manage, mentor, and motivate a team of staff across all yards. Collaborate with Yard Managers and Supervisors to ensure ongoing training and performance support. Ensure staff schedules provide adequate cover for all areas including reception and events. Uphold compliance with HR legislation in collaboration with the HR and Accounts team. Lead regular staff meetings and promote effective communication. Oversee and deliver BHS training across the team. Health, Safety & Compliance Maintain up-to-date health & safety procedures and deliver regular training. Ensure ongoing compliance with all regulatory bodies including BHS, local council, insurers, and exam providers. Seek new accreditations and implement improvements aligned with industry best practice. Client Relationships & Communications Foster a welcoming and communicative environment for clients and liveries. Organise client and livery events to build community and gather feedback. Ensure the website and communications (e.g., newsletters, digital marketing) are regularly updated and aligned with the marketing plan. Support the MD with other business development initiatives and projects as required. What We’re Looking For Essential Requirements Minimum 5 years' experience in a similar management role within the equestrian sector. Must hold a minimum BHS Stage 5. Strong leadership, integrity, communication, and interpersonal skills. Proven track record in managing riding schools and livery operations. In-depth knowledge of horse welfare and yard management. Financial literacy with experience using MS Office, SAGE, and EC software platforms. Confident rider and experienced trainer with ability to work with a variety of horses. Organised, punctual, and committed to high standards. UK driving licence and ability to drive a 3.5-tonne horsebox. Right to live and work in the UK. To Apply Please email your CV and cover letter explaining your interest in the role to Mel by email by5pm on 16th May 2025. Interview and coaching demonstration day: Thursday 22nd May 2025 Safeguarding Statement Shardeloes Farm Equestrian Centre is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check. Please note: An online search of shortlisted candidates may be conducted as part of our safeguarding procedures. It is an offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity related to children. Reply by email by 5pm on 16th May 2025. Interview and coaching demonstration day: Thursday 22nd May 2025 Safeguarding Statement Shardeloes Farm Equestrian Centre is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check. Please note: An online search of shortlisted candidates may be conducted as part of our safeguarding procedures. It is an offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity related to children.
SFEC
Shardeloes Farm Equestrian Centre
England
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