An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious Rural Estate Manager to lead and develop Hatfield Park Estate’s diverse rural portfolio. The role is ideal for someone early in their career looking to step into a leadership position within a forward-thinking Estate. You will have the chance to enhance your skills, make a meaningful impact on the Estate’s future, and thrive within a supportive and dynamic team.
This remarkable and historic Estate is centred around Hatfield House, one of the great Jacobean masterpieces built in the early 17th century, and home to the 7th Marquess and Marchioness of Salisbury. It is part of Gascoyne Estates, who manage the land and property interests of the Cecil Family, and which also includes the Cranborne Estate in Dorset, together with London property interests.
Location
Located in Hertfordshire within an idyllic rural setting, the Hatfield Park Estate offers convenient access to London Kings Cross (just 22 minutes by train), with Hatfield railway station just 5 minutes’ walk from the Estate Office. It is also within easy road access to the A1 and M1, as well as Luton, Heathrow, and Stansted airports.
The Position
Reporting to the Hatfield Estate Director, the Rural Estate Manager will collaborate closely with other Heads of Department to ensure Hatfield becomes an exemplar for responsible and sustainable land management set against the wider backdrop of Hatfield Park as a vibrant, modern business, recognised as a hub for both businesses and community.
With responsibility for a small team, the successful candidate will take an active role in managing the rural portfolio. This encompasses oversight of six let farms, a portfolio of wayleaves, easements and grazing paddocks, as well as forestry and mineral operations. The role also includes responsibility for environmental management, renewable energy projects, and two in-hand shoots, while providing support to wider development and diversification initiatives. There are significant opportunities to enhance both the effectiveness and long-term impact of the Estate’s operations.
The Candidate
- Ideally MRICS or CAAV qualified with experience of managing rural operations and an understanding of farming, forestry and wider land management practices. Candidates with relevant experience who are not MRICS qualified will also be considered.
- A personable leader, who thinks creatively and can build strong relationships.
- Understanding of budgeting, strategic planning and performance analysis.
- Able to contribute to the ongoing development of policies and estate strategies.
- Comfortable working in a team and independently.
- Commercially driven with a passion for sustainability.
For a copy of the Job Description and to discuss confidentially please contact Helen Astill by email helen@astrecsolutions.com or telephone 07721 437 085.
