Lead Yard Hand

The Lead Yard Hand plays a central role in the daily running of the charity. Ensuring high standards of animal care, smooth operation of public facing areas and effective coordination of staff and volunteers. As a key part of a small team, the post holder will need to be practical, flexible and ready to turn to a wide range of daily tasks. This role supports the general manager and provides first-line to two yard hands and our team of volunteers, helping to maintain a safe, welcoming environment for our animals, visitors, and volunteers. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Deliver high-quality daily care for the wildlife ensuring high welfare standards are consistently met, Lead by example in the yard duties including feeding, mucking out, grooming, and monitoring animals health. Support the general manager with organising daily routines, seasonal tasks and farm maintenance. Carry out basic repairs on the farm e.g. the fences and buildings. Undertake gardening, including grass cutting and strimming. Ensure safe use of farm equipment and machinery. TEAM LEADERSHIP: Provide day-to-day supervision, guidance, and support of two yard hands and volunteers. Assist with staff training, task allocation and maintaining a positive, collaborative working environment. Act as a point of contact for operational issues when the general manager is off site. Induct, train and support volunteers, ensuring they feel valued, confident and equipped for their roles. Foster a welcoming, inclusive culture for volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide assistance in the cafe and shop, ensuring high standards and excellent customer service. Manage cash handling and reconciliation. Act as an ambassador for the charity, providing friendly, knowledgeable engagement with the public. Support seasonal events such as Easter, Halloween, and Christmas, helping to create enjoyable experiences for visitors. Work flexibly as a small team that operates 365 days a year. Use initiative to solve problems and respond to unexpected situations calmly and effectively. Maintain high standards of health and safety across all areas on site. Uphold the values, reputation and long history of the home of rest. ESSENTIAL CRITERIA : At least 2 years experience working with horses and confidence handling animals of varying ages and temperaments. Excellent customer service skills. Full drivers licence. Flexible with working hours and tasks, including cover for events and annual leave. Comfortable working outdoors in all seasons and able to to carry out the hands-on nature of the role. Ability to carry out basic repairs around the farm. Strong problem solving skills and working on your own initiative. Experience working with or coordinating people and guiding or supporting people. DESIRERABLE CRITERIA: Ability to use farm equipment e.g. tractors, mowers, catering experience. Relevant certifications such as chainsaw operation or machinery use.

For more details and to apply contact laura@iomhorseshome.im