A yard manger’s role is likely to include; - work allocation to employees, setting the daily routine, allocating horses to riders, overseeing the work on a yard to ensure it is done to the right standard, and checking all horses are well and sound. A yard manager may have other duties dependant on their qualifications such as coaching lessons, riding horses and training staff, so work can be varied. A yard manager may have some office duties, but will be leading by example, doing many of the day-to-day duties on the yard working alongside other staff.
How to become a Yard Manager
A yard manger will need to have practical experience working in the equine industry and have a sound knowledge of all areas of horse care. Dedicated and able to take responsibility, they are the go-to person for any problems that may arise.
The BHS Stage 4 Senior Yard Manager qualification provides the skills required of a yard manager. Holding this qualification signifies to employers that you have skills in business management, knowledge of workplace legislation, yard and grassland maintenance and a high level of horse care and management.
Benefits
There are numerous types of yard you could work in including; studs, livery yards, riding schools, private yards, racing yards, showing yards or competition yards. The type of work may vary depending on the yard and the role you take on; some jobs could involve riding and coaching whilst others may involve more office duties or focus more solely on the management of the yard.
Experience gained as a yard manger could lead to you taking on the full management of a business or even setting up your own business to become the proprietor of a yard.