Lingua 
My entry into the poultry industry follows a similar line to a great many in the sector – the son of a farm manager. In fact, I am the son of two turkey farmers and the elder brother of two more! So it is probably little surprise that I have also found myself in the industry.
What does a typical day look like? Well it usually starts in one of two ways: either with a visit to a farm, or to the office. In truth it is usually very varied. The job requires equal measures of technical management, people management and organisation/ planning. So depending upon the requirements of the day, it can involve anything from supporting farms with technical input to HR or farm planning. As we have laying farms spread over 4 counties I tend to spend quite a lot of time on the road!
Most days will start with a farm visit. I usually aim to arrive in time to assist with the last of the AI and complete a site walk with the farm manager.
During the visit I will be looking at the birds, checking egg quality, temperatures, ventilation etc. and discussing any issues that may have arisen, before implementing or planning changes where necessary. Lastly I’ll take time to speak to the farm staff before heading to the office, where I’ll catch up on any emails or phone calls that have come in during the morning.
The rest of my morning and afternoon will be spent in a variety of ways; for example, analysing egg production and fertility data, meeting with colleagues, staff recruitment and planning, purchasing or any number of other tasks that come with managing a department – the list is endless!
In summary, managing the laying farms can be a very demanding job. There are always birds or people that need attention, but equally it is very rewarding. I am lucky enough to have a team of some of the best farm managers and farm staff in the business, which makes my day a pleasure – generally!