Vice President for Animal Operations

The Vice President of Animal Operations is responsible for leading and overseeing the strategic and day-to-day management of the company's Animal Operations Division. This role directs Farm Managers and ensures that all farm operations are standardized, efficient, and aligned with the organization's goals. The position plays a key role in driving growth, implementing best practices, introducing new technologies, and ensuring operational excellence across all sites. The Vice President d of Animal Operations collaborates closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams, manages budgets and performance metrics, and stays abreast of industry trends to maintain a competitive edge.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develops, implements, and communicates the strategic direction of the Animal Operations Division in alignment with overall business goals.

• Oversees daily operations, revenue generation, and continuous growth of the Animal Operations Division.

• Leads and manages Farm Managers, ensuring alignment with operational goals and consistent implementation of best practices across all farms.

• Standardizes processes, systems, and workflows to ensure uniformity, efficiency, and quality across all animal operations sites.

• Partners with executive leadership to drive company objectives by providing expert input on animal-related projects, systems, and performance.

• Coordinates with other departments to ensure cross-functional alignment and support of organizational goals.

• Evaluates and implements new technologies, systems, and processes to improve efficiency, resource utilization, and operational excellence.

• Ensures departmental plans—including staffing, training, procurement, and facilities—align with the company's vision and long-term strategy.

• Establishes and enforces policies, procedures, standards, and security measures related to Animal Operations.

• Reviews and approves cost estimates, budget controls, and staffing requirements.

• Prepares and presents performance metrics and strategic reports to the President.

• Stays informed on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in animal operations and livestock management.

• Identifies skill gaps and oversees the development and delivery of training programs.

• Monitors market trends, competitor activity, and opportunities for business expansion.

• Performs other duties as required to support the success of the organization.
  
  Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine, Agribusiness, or a related field (Master's degree in Business Administration, Agriculture, or related discipline preferred).

• Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive leadership experience in animal operations, farm management, or livestock production, with at least 5 years in a senior management or executive role.

• Proven expertise in large-scale farm operations, livestock health and welfare, feed management, and production efficiency.

• Strong business acumen with experience in strategic planning, financial management, and resource allocation.

• Knowledge of industry best practices, biosecurity protocols, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance in animal operations.

• Excellent leadership, people management, and communication skills, with a track record of building and mentoring high-performing teams.

• Ability to drive innovation, implement modern farming technologies, and improve productivity while ensuring animal welfare and sustainability.

• Strong negotiation, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, especially in high-pressure or complex operational environments.

• Willingness to travel frequently and oversee multiple farm locations, if required.