Farm Manager - Riverside

Job title: Farm Manager - Riverside

Department: College of Sciences

Location: Wairarapa

Closing date: 13 March 2026

Massey University’s Massey Agricultural & Horticultural Enterprises (MAHE) is seeking an experienced Farm Manager to lead operations at Riverside, our flagship sheep and beef property in the Wairarapa. This is a unique opportunity to manage a high-performing commercial farm while contributing directly to world-class teaching, research, and industry engagement. This is a full-time, ongoing position.

Massey University is a world-leading institution committed to being a Tiriti led organisation, supporting innovation, industry partnership, student development, and excellence in agriculture. Riverside is a key component- of our teaching and research ecosystem, offering the successful candidate an opportunity to be part of something truly impactful for Aotearoa and global farming systems.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role

As the Riverside Farm Manager, you will be responsible for the full delivery of farm operations, including production, research support, staff leadership, health & safety, and farm presentation. You’ll lead a capable team and work closely with researchers, students, and the General Manager to ensure Riverside remains a centre of excellence for innovation in pastoral farming.

This role is ideal for a forward-thinking leader who thrives at the intersection of commercial farming and research, and who takes pride in developing people, maintaining high standards and driving productivity.

Key responsibilities for this role include:

• Manage all sheep and beef farming operations to a high commercial and research standard.

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• Deliver farm performance and productivity within MAHE and Massey University goals.

• Coordinate on farm research activities and maintain accurate research and cost records.

• Ensure full compliance with environmental/resource consents and health & safety.

• Lead, develop and support farm staff and casual employees.

• Maintain excellent communication with researchers, students, staff and stakeholders.

• Provide monthly reporting, planning and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

• Represent Riverside professionally at field days, teaching sessions and industry events.

• Maintain the farm as a high-quality, well-presented Massey University ‘showpiece’.

Mōu | About you

You will have a National Certificate in Production Management as a minimum qualification and preferably also have a National Diploma in Agribusiness Management, Certificate in Rural Staff Management (or similar), Diploma in Agriculture or a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Sciences/Management.

You will also bring:

• Proven experience managing complex sheep and/or beef operations.

• Strong planning, organisation, and people management capabilities.

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work within a research environment.

• Demonstrated understanding of Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.

• Positive, team-oriented attitude and commitment to MAHE and Massey values.

• A full New Zealand Driver’s Licence.

If you are seeking an opportunity to work in a progressive and supportive environment apply now!