Managers and proprietors in agriculture and horticulture

Description

Managers and proprietors in this unit group plan, organise and co-ordinate the activities and resources of farming and mixed farming establishments cultivating arable crops, fruits, trees and shrubs, and/or raising cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry. Managers and proprietors in horticulture oversee the production of plants for wholesale and/or retail.

Tasks

• Determines financial, staffing and other short and long-term needs
• Produces and maintains records of production, finance and breeding
• Decides or advises on the types of crops and/or produce to be grown or livestock raised
• Plans intensity and sequence of farm or horticultural operations and orders seed, fertiliser, equipment and other supplies
• Markets and arranges for the sale of crops, livestock and other farm or horticultural produce

Educational Requirements

Whilst no formal academic qualifications are required by proprietors in this area, most farm and horticultural managers have a vocational agricultural qualification (such as a BTEC/SQA award) and prior practical farming experience. Many farm and horticultural management jobs require a degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject. A small number of large farm and farm consultancy companies run graduate management training schemes. Apprenticeships are also available, as well as NVQs/SVQs in Agriculture at Level 4.