Livestock Procurement Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving agricultural industry, the role of a Livestock Procurement Manager has never been more critical.
As global food consumption patterns shift, and the demand for animal-based products rises, the need for skilled professionals who can manage, optimize and secure our livestock procurement processes grows ever stronger.
But what is truly expected from a Livestock Procurement Manager?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of livestock procurement management,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Livestock Procurement Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Livestock Procurement Manager Duties and Responsibilities
Livestock Procurement Managers play a key role in the agricultural industry, responsible for the acquisition of livestock and ensuring their health and wellbeing until sale.
This role requires an understanding of animal care, finance, and negotiation.
The duties and responsibilities of a Livestock Procurement Manager include:
- Identifying and sourcing potential suppliers of livestock
- Negotiating prices and contracts with livestock suppliers
- Planning and managing the transport of purchased livestock
- Ensuring proper care and maintenance of procured livestock
- Monitoring market trends and making procurement decisions based on them
- Developing and maintaining relationships with livestock suppliers
- Inspecting and assessing the health and quality of purchased livestock
- Ensuring compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations
- Managing budgets and keeping detailed records of purchases
- Coordinating with farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural professionals
Livestock Procurement Manager Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking an experienced Livestock Procurement Manager to oversee the sourcing, acquisition, and management of livestock for our operations.
The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in livestock procurement, strong negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of animal welfare standards.
The Livestock Procurement Manager will be responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with livestock suppliers, monitoring market trends, and ensuring all livestock meet our high-quality standards.
Responsibilities
- Manage all aspects of livestock procurement, including sourcing, negotiation, and acquisition.
- Maintain strong relationships with livestock suppliers and farmers.
- Develop and implement procurement strategies and plans.
- Monitor market trends and livestock prices.
- Ensure all livestock meet our high-quality and welfare standards.
- Prepare and manage livestock procurement budgets.
- Manage and resolve any issues or disputes with suppliers.
- Coordinate with other departments to forecast and meet livestock requirements.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
- Regularly report on procurement activities and performance.
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Livestock Procurement Manager or similar role.
- Deep understanding of livestock market dynamics and pricing.
- Strong negotiation and relationship management skills.
- Knowledge of animal welfare standards and regulations.
- Excellent analytical and strategic planning skills.
- Strong communication and reporting skills.
- Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Business, or related field.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Livestock Procurement Manager
- Work Environment: This role may require travel to farms and livestock markets. The majority of work is office-based.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Procurement.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: Dependent on experience and qualifications.
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Livestock Procurement Manager Do?
A Livestock Procurement Manager typically works for corporations in the agricultural sector or independent livestock purchasing companies.
They may also work as self-employed individuals, partnering with various farms and ranches.
They work closely with farmers, ranchers, and other livestock producers to ensure the supply of livestock meets the quantity and quality standards required by their organization.
Their job is to negotiate purchase prices, manage livestock procurement contracts, and maintain relationships with livestock suppliers to ensure a steady and reliable supply chain.
Livestock Procurement Managers also oversee the process of transporting the livestock from the farm or ranch to their organization’s facilities.
This involves coordinating with transport companies and ensuring the livestock are handled in an ethical and humane manner.
They may also be responsible for monitoring market trends, evaluating supplier performance, and identifying opportunities for cost savings or improvements in the procurement process.
In addition, they ensure that all livestock procurement activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
Livestock Procurement Manager Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Livestock Procurement Manager should possess the following qualifications and skills:
- Thorough knowledge of livestock farming and animal husbandry, including livestock health, nutrition, and breed characteristics.
- Excellent negotiation skills to liaise with farmers, livestock dealers, and slaughterhouses to secure the best possible purchase prices.
- Strong analytical skills to assess the market trends and determine the best time to procure livestock.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to establish and maintain positive relationships with livestock suppliers.
- Organizational skills to manage logistics involved in the transport, housing and care of procured livestock.
- Problem-solving skills to resolve any procurement issues that may arise and to ensure the continuity of livestock supply.
- Ability to comply with all relevant regulations and standards related to livestock procurement and animal welfare.
- Business management skills to plan budgets, oversee purchasing processes, and assess the efficiency of procurement operations.
Livestock Procurement Manager Experience Requirements
A Livestock Procurement Manager typically requires a minimum of 5 to 7 years of experience in the livestock industry.
This includes experience in livestock buying, sales, and management.
Entry-level candidates may start their careers as livestock handlers, farming assistants, or livestock procurement officers.
This gives them a hands-on experience with livestock management and procurement, and builds their knowledge about livestock breeds, feeding, and health management.
Those with 2-3 years of experience might have worked as livestock procurement coordinators or officers, where they learn the basics of strategic procurement, supplier relationship management, and the legal and ethical aspects of livestock procurement.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have already held roles such as Livestock Procurement Supervisor or Livestock Supply Chain Manager.
In these roles, they would have developed their skills in managing procurement teams, negotiating contracts, and strategic planning.
Those with over 7 years of experience, especially in leadership roles, are ideal candidates for Livestock Procurement Manager positions.
These professionals have a deep understanding of the livestock industry, a strong track record in procurement management, and demonstrated leadership abilities.
They may also have a background in agriculture, business, or a related field, which contributes to their expertise in the role.
Livestock Procurement Manager Education and Training Requirements
Livestock Procurement Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business, animal science, or a related field.
They need a solid background in livestock evaluation and production, as well as a sound understanding of market factors influencing livestock pricing.
Some roles may require Livestock Procurement Managers to have a master’s degree in agriculture economics or business management for a more nuanced understanding of the business side of the livestock industry.
It is also common for individuals in this role to have relevant work experience in the livestock industry or in sales, as practical knowledge of livestock and industry trends can be invaluable.
Additionally, Livestock Procurement Managers may pursue certifications in livestock evaluation or agricultural business management.
These certifications demonstrate a commitment to professional development and can enhance a manager’s ability to make informed buying decisions.
Practical experience with livestock, either through farm work or 4-H club participation, can also be beneficial in this role.
Livestock Procurement Manager Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Livestock Procurement Manager is $64,000 (USD) per year.
However, this figure can fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, the size and location of the farm or organization, and the type of livestock being procured.
Livestock Procurement Manager Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Livestock Procurement Manager need?
A Livestock Procurement Manager should have good negotiation and communication skills as they are often dealing with farmers and suppliers.
They need to have a sound knowledge of livestock grading and pricing, as well as market trends to ensure fair and profitable deals.
In addition, they should have strong problem-solving skills, analytical ability to assess the quality of livestock, and organizational skills to manage contracts and delivery schedules.
Do Livestock Procurement Managers need a degree?
While not always required, a degree in agriculture, business management, or a related field can be beneficial for a Livestock Procurement Manager.
Practical experience in the livestock industry, understanding of animal husbandry, or previous experience in procurement can also be valuable.
What should you look for in a Livestock Procurement Manager’s resume?
A Livestock Procurement Manager’s resume should highlight experience in the livestock industry, particularly in buying or selling livestock.
It should also showcase their knowledge of livestock grading and market trends.
Look for evidence of strong negotiation skills, relationship management, and successful procurement strategies.
Knowledge of livestock health and safety regulations and any relevant certifications should also be considered.
What qualities make a good Livestock Procurement Manager?
A good Livestock Procurement Manager should have a deep understanding of the livestock market and trends.
They should be excellent negotiators and communicators, able to build strong relationships with farmers and suppliers.
They need to be detail-oriented and analytical, capable of assessing the quality and value of livestock accurately.
A good manager in this role should also be ethical and transparent in their dealings, ensuring fair trade and adherence to animal welfare standards.
Is it difficult to hire Livestock Procurement Managers?
Hiring a Livestock Procurement Manager can be challenging due to the specific combination of skills and experience required.
The ideal candidate needs to have a good understanding of the livestock industry and procurement processes, as well as strong negotiation skills.
Finding someone with all these qualities can be time-consuming, but it’s essential for the success of the role.
Offering competitive salaries and a positive work environment can help attract qualified candidates.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a Livestock Procurement Manager.
Surprise, surprise?
It’s not just about buying and selling livestock.
It’s about shaping the future of agribusiness, one livestock procurement at a time.
With our comprehensive livestock procurement manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take on new pastures.
But why stop at just the surface?
Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to precision-crafted job listings or honing your resume to its finest.
Remember:
Every livestock procurement is a part of the grander agribusiness landscape.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
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