Summit Search Group has been engaged by our client to recruit their next Ranch Manager. This is a unique, long-term career opportunity to lead a large, well-respected beef cattle operation near Lake Francis, Manitoba. The successful candidate will provide full operational oversight for a cow-calf operation that includes approximately 1,800 cows and 18,000 acres of land.
Reporting to the family’s appointed representative, the Ranch Manager will be accountable for livestock health and welfare, land stewardship, team leadership, financial planning, and long-term operational strategy. On-site housing is provided in a private yard adjacent to the ranch.
The Organization:
This family-owned operation—run by third-generation owners based in Germany—has been committed to sustainable land stewardship and rural economic development in Manitoba since the 1970s. The ranch is guided by values of sustainability, community support, and employee well-being.
What You’ll Do:
- Lead all daily ranch operations, including livestock care, rotational grazing, pasture management, calving, weaning, and equipment use.
- Oversee, train, and support a team of 6–8 full-time employees, plus seasonal workers during peak periods.
- Ensure best practices in low-stress livestock handling, biosecurity, and herd health protocols.
- Plan and manage the ranch’s annual operating and capital budgets, track expenses, and prepare regular performance reports for ownership.
- Coordinate seasonal activities including fencing, feed preparation, equipment maintenance, and land development.
- Manage annual and perennial forage production, including planning, seeding, harvesting, and inventory to support year-round feed requirements.
- Uphold and implement sustainable land use and rotational grazing practices to ensure environmental health and economic viability.
- Act as the primary liaison with stakeholders such as veterinarians, feed and equipment suppliers, accountants, and local regulatory bodies.
- Foster a positive, safety-first culture among all staff and lead by example in daily operations.
- Maintain close communication with the absentee ownership group and provide updates on key metrics, challenges, and strategic priorities.
What You Bring:
Must-Have Qualifications
- Proven leadership experience in ranching or large-scale agricultural operations.
- Deep understanding of cow-calf production, herd health, and seasonal livestock cycles.
- Strong financial management skills including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
- A demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and retain high-performing teams.
- Experience with sustainable ranching, including rotational grazing and conservation practices.
- Willingness to live on-site and be fully involved in all aspects of operations.
Nice-to-Have Attributes
- Agricultural diploma, degree, or certifications in livestock or land management.
- Familiarity with environmentally sensitive practices, especially near Lake Manitoba.
- Mechanical aptitude and hands-on comfort with ranch equipment and infrastructure.
- Appreciation of rural living and being part of a rural community
Work Environment & Expectations:
- Location: Ranch near Lake Francis, MB – ~45 minutes from Winnipeg.
- Housing: Provided in a separate on-site yard adjacent to the ranch.
- Schedule: Full-time, on-site; flexible availability for evenings, weekends, and emergency response is required.
- Mentorship: Leadership transition support available from outgoing Ranch Manager.
- Team Culture: Strong emphasis on collaboration, safety, and respect for land, animals, and people.
This is a rare opportunity for a passionate, community-minded ranching professional to lead a prominent Manitoba cattle operation with the full support of a dedicated ownership group and experienced local team.
For more information, or to submit your resume, please contact Gail Eckert at Summit Search Group: gail.eckert@summitsearchgroup.com
Summit Search Group is committed to Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion. We strive for continuous development, modeling inclusive behaviors, and proactively managing bias throughout our process.
Gail Eckert
Job ID
City
- Stonewall, MB
Remuneration
Competitive Salary + benefits
Gail Eckert
Job ID
City
- Stonewall, MB
Remuneration
Competitive Salary + benefits 