Equestrian Manager

JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for all aspects of the operations at Equestrian Center. Responsible for implementing a multidiscipline riding program, developing multidiscipline events that cater to the current rider and one that creates interest for our non-riding community.  Ability to care for and maintain the horse and facility at a luxury sporting club level at all times. Ensure that the facility’s culture aligns with the equestrian center’s vision and mission statement. Ensure that all members and guests receive the first-class service and professionalism for which The Ford Field & River Club is known.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Riding, Training, Programing:

1. Designs and organizes equestrian activities, onsite events, clinics, and offsite events that cater to the whole club.
2. Customizes a riding program that attracts young riders and first-time adult riders to the riding program.
3. Ability to ride and instruct jumping lesson up to 2’6”
4. Ability to ride and instruct ranch horse lessons.
5. Ability to ride and instruct dressage lessons.
6. Ensure appropriate measures are taken in regard to the safety of all riders and horses.
7. Acquires additional club horses as needed to increase usage and promote a robust riding program.
8. Ability to ride multidisciplines (english, western and dressage)
9. Ability to ride 5-6 horses a day.
10. Ability to negotiate lease and purchase agreements on behalf of the club and/ or a member.
11. Knowledgeable of saddle fitting and appropriate tack to meet the needs of different disciplines.
12. Ability to handle and manage young horses and “hard to handle” horses in a professional manner.
13. Knowledge of mare and foal care a plus.

Veterinarian and Wellness

1. Ability to spot lameness and sickness quickly and take the appropriate measures to solve these health issues. 
2. Proven ability to administer I.V. and I.M. medication.
3. Proven ability to run fluids and remove catheters.
4. Knowledgeable of reading radiographs and ultrasound
5. Knowledgeable of nutritional feed, supplements and medications commonly used in a high-end facility.
6. Ability to consult with Veterinarians and Farriers and other outside consultants on technical issues to ensure Ford’s standard of care is met at all times.

Management of Operations:

1. Involved in the hiring, training and evaluation of employees.  Recommends disciplinary action and promotion/raises as necessary.
2. Actively involved in the maintenance and enhancements of trails used for the trail ride program.
3. Schedule and coordinate all feed, shavings, hay, veterinarian supplies, barn supplies, veterinarian appointments, farrier appointments, massage therapy and chiropractic appointments.
4. Coordinate with grounds staff on year-round paddock maintenance. 
5. Coordinate and consult with Attwood Services on arena maintenance.
6. Ensures that all equipment is clean, in good condition, and all required maintenance of the equipment, trucks, and trailers is completed in a timely manner.
7. Must be able to operate a bumper pull and goose neck horse trailer, drive large and small Kubota tractors, Bobcats, and scissor lift.
8. Ensure the facility and grounds of the equestrian center are maintained at a First-Class level at all times.
9. Work with other departments and outside contractors on any repairs and/ or capital improvements that are performed at the equestrian center.
10. Ability to enforce the rules and polices of the club in a professional manner to all members, guests and staff.

Sales, Marketing, Face of the Facility

1. Key person in selling the equestrian Ford lifestyle. Coordinate with the sales team on tours and have the ability to customize the equestrian tour experience to optimize the sales pitch to equestrian prospect.
2. Ability to be the equestrian influencer on all the marketing material, video, and ad campaigns to ensure that the club is marketed correctly as a luxury equestrian facility. 
3. Ability to create PowerPoint presentations and present capital expenditures to the board.
4. Help facilitate the monthly committee meeting and create the monthly meeting agenda.
5. Plan, implement, and host The Kentucky Derby Party and the Wild West party.
6. Ability to create and promote the equestrian center activities through written ads, photos and marketing material on the club website, email blast, and weekly social media spotlights.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assists in other departments and performs additional related duties as required.
2. Treats all members, guests and co-workers in a friendly and respectful manner in accordance with the standards of excellence of The Ford Field & River Club.
3. Understands and follows policies and procedures of the department and The Ford Field & River Club  and conveys this information to employees.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

1. College Degree in Equine Science or Equine Business management or equivalent.
2. Currently possesses a certification as a riding instructor in either an english or western discipline. 
3. At least 10 years of experience in managing and training at a high-end facility. 
4. Must possess a valid driver’s license.
5. Proficient in Excel, Word, Microsoft office, and goggle calendar.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Standing, stooping, bending, pushing and pulling.  Lifts up to 50 pounds, occasionally up to 75 pounds.  Must be able to walk 20 miles a day. Vision must be correctable to read and write.  Hearing must be sufficient to understand conversation on the telephone and outside in a noisy environment.  Must have hand usage to effectively work with the horses and track.  Must be able to work irregular hours including evenings, holidays and weekends. On call for any horse emergency or sickness.