Mount Stuart Trust

Rural Operations Manager

A full-time position has arisen to work as the Rural Operations Manager at the Mount Stuart Trust on the beautiful Isle of Bute.

MST’s rural operations extend to 31,000 acres made up of agriculture, woodland, commercial forestry and amenity land (including fishing lochs, an airstrip, beaches and three golf courses).

There are 102 residential properties, a sawmill, a hydro scheme, sporting tenancies and several commercial ventures (including two quarries). The agriculture varies from hill to arable with 25 tenanted businesses including eight dairy farms. MST has a 900 acre in-hand farm which is currently converting to organic. There are both commercial forestry and woodland which includes temperate rainforest and SSSI. The forestry harvest supplies the MST Sawmill which produces treated sawn timber, firewood and woodchip for three biomass boilers.

The successful applicant will be responsible for:

• Liaising with key stakeholders and tenants
• Overseeing the day-to-day management of the in-hand livestock farm
• Line managing the Forestry and Countryside Ranger departments
• Keeping the digital mapping and electronic property systems in order
• Managing some exciting developments with good communication and enthusiasm

The individual will need at least 3 – 5 years’ experience in rural land management and ideally be MRICS or CAAV qualified. The position will report directly to the Rural Operations Director.

The Isle of Bute is a fantastic place to live with stunning beaches, good schools, coastal footpaths, golf courses and the recently opened Bute Yard. The island is only 1.5 hours from Glasgow and the ferries run hourly to the mainland.

The package will include an excellent salary (depending on experience), 4x4 vehicle (driving licence required), a company pension scheme and private health care.

Please either apply with CV or organise an informal chat via fiona@mountstuart.com.

Closing Date: 31/12/2023  Location: Isle of Bute