Chief Operating Officer (UK) – Integrated Poultry Business

You’re a senior leader and prominent industry figure eager to drive transformation and modernisation in the poultry sector.

This role will place you firmly at the forefront of raising performance, welfare and quality across the business.

The company is a widely respected and forward-thinking poultry business, committed to investing in its people, its farms, and its future.

As one of the largest farming employers in the UK, it offers the opportunity to be part of a progressive and growing organisation at the forefront of the industry.

This is a hands‑on leadership role with significant responsibility across UK chicken and turkey operations.

About the Role:

You’ll be responsible for multi-site operations day to day across breeding, rearing, growing and hatching – making sure farms perform well, birds are cared for to the highest standards and teams are supported to do their best work.

You’ll have real scope to shape how the operation works and leave a lasting impact.

Your responsibilities will include:

Leading all UK chicken and turkey breeding, rearing and growing operations.

Making sure welfare standards are consistently high and exceed regulatory and industry expectations.

Drive cost-reduction and efficiency programmes without compromising safety, welfare, or product quality.

Supporting, developing and motivating farm and operational leadership teams.

Working closely with the Group Managing Director on strategic planning, investment and operational improvement.

Playing a key role in modernisation projects, including new systems, technology and automation.

Building strong, constructive relationships with customers, suppliers and industry partners.

About You:

This role would suit a proven technical and/or operations leader who knows the detail of live bird operations, has a vision of where the industry is headed and enjoys leading people.

You’re likely to have:

Substantial senior leadership experience within the poultry sector (essential).

Strong technical and operational knowledge of breeding, rearing, hatching and growing environments (essential).

A proven track record of improving performance, welfare and costs.

A supportive, down‑to‑earth leadership style that brings the best out of others.

The confidence to make decisions and the credibility to influence at all levels.

A genuine commitment to animal welfare, sustainability and responsible farming.

What you can expect:

A highly competitive base salary, corresponding with experience, complemented by a performance-related bonus and a comprehensive executive benefits package aligned with a senior leadership role.

To apply:

For more information and an informal confidential discussion please call Jon Handley on: Office 01885 485522 or e-mail your CV and covering letter to jon.handley@delacyexecutive.co.uk

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