Location: Billings, Montana
HOW TO WORK WITH US -
- Read through this overview posting. Interested, but want more details (like company name and compensation)?
- Request the Opportunity Highlights by clicking here Candidate Intake Form or email: info@agheadhunters.com
- Still interested? Apply here: Ranch Operations Manager or email: info@agheadhunters.com
If it’s not a fit for you, please consider sharing with others in your network as you never know when you might change someone’s life for the better. Thank you for your interest in this opportunity.
Are you a hands-on agricultural leader who takes pride in the daily execution of a diversified ranching operation?
Do you possess deep technical knowledge of cattle and cattle feeding?
Are you the type of manager who earns respect by working alongside your crew, yet possesses the administrative competence to ensure protocols are followed?
Are you looking for a "boots on the ground" leadership role where you can run the business for a mature, successful, multi-generational agricultural concern?
Our client is a diversified agricultural enterprise with operations spanning ranching, cattle feeding, farming, and carbon renewable agriculture production systems, located in the greater Billings, MT area. The ranch operates with a focus on excellence. The culture is described as traditional, requiring leadership that demonstrates job knowledge and a willingness to help with daily physical tasks to ensure the respect of the crew. We’re looking for a business runner—someone who takes pride in maintaining a company that is already performing well. The candidate gets the satisfaction of ownership over daily execution, protocols, and crew management without the stress of market volatility or financing.
The brand advances its rich legacy through a commitment to continual innovation. This focus is designed for sustainable growth and a secure future for generations to come. The company's dedication has led to the successful development of processes and systems that consistently achieve measurably excellent results.
Why is this beneficial to you?:
You are not just working a job at a ranch; you are taking the operational reins of a high-performing and diversified agricultural enterprise led by one of the industry's most forward-thinking executives.
You will report directly to a fifth-generation rancher with an impressive resume that includes leadership roles at Certified Angus Beef and the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. They are driving initiatives to secure the future of the American rancher against regulatory and economic pressures. This is a rare chance to work alongside a leader who combines deep tradition with high-level corporate strategy and data-driven management, offering the ROM a front-row seat to modern, progressive ranching.
Considering the exposure to cutting-edge innovation, this is not a “stuck in the past” operation. It’s a rare opportunity to manage operations for a storied ranch, pioneering clean beef. Through a joint venture, they are developing a state-of-the-art, 15,000-head sustainable facility designed to produce the most eco-friendly beef in the marketplace, with advanced waste treatment and renewable energy. You will also oversee herds managed with high-tech protocols, including ultrasound data analysis for carcass traits and Wagyu genetics.
This role is perfect for the leader who hates being stuck behind a desk all day. The culture is one of respect earned through action and knowledge. The ROM will work with a diverse crew—including a Livestock Manager, cowboys, and H2A workers. For a candidate who takes pride in physical work and camaraderie, this offers a work environment where leadership is demonstrated by doing, not just directing.
Based in the Billings, MT area, you get the best of both worlds: the authentic, rural ranching lifestyle on the Yellowstone River with access to city amenities, airports, and world-class recreation (skiing at Big Sky, hunting, fishing) within a short drive. Visit Think Billings to learn more about the area and the opportunities available around the area.
The Ranch Operations Manager isn't walking into a turnaround disaster; they are being handed the keys to a functional, successful machine.
If you are a seasoned cattle operations manager who can lead and expand upon an already impressive legacy, this could be your next role.
COMPANY INFORMATION:
This is not just a cattle operation; it is a legacy enterprise with roots tracing to the Bozeman Trail. Headquartered near Billings, the operation has grown exponentially into a diversified
engine, and today operates under a clear, modern vision that separates these businesses from standard ranching jobs.
1. Strategic Vertical Integration
2. High-Profile Industry Partnerships
3. Future-Focused Growth
CULTURE:
Resilience and Boots on the Ground: The culture is traditional—respect is earned in the saddle and the chute, not the office. We need a leader who embodies a “figure it out" mentality —someone who can tough out the isolation, the weather, and the hard days without breaking. You must be the type of leader that others want to work for.
- Your Team: You will directly manage an established crew, including a Livestock Manager, four cowboys, an Operations Foreman, and H2A staff. Total staff of 15-17.
- The Test: You must possess the versatility to fill in for any key employee—if a cowboy or equipment operator quits, you are the person who keeps the wheels turning until a replacement is found.
THE ROLE:
Ranch Operations Manager (ROM)
The Ranch Operations Manager is an execution-focused leadership role responsible for the day-to-day operation of the business. While the President retains responsibility for high-level strategy, commodity buying/selling, and grazing plans, the ROM is responsible for ensuring that all protocols and policies are implemented effectively in the field. This is a hands-on management position; the successful candidate must be willing to perform daily physical tasks alongside the crew to ensure operations run smoothly and to gain the respect of the team. You will act as a bridge between crew and ownership, requiring top-notch communication skills.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Operational Execution: Focus on the strict execution of policies and protocols set by senior management rather than high-level strategic planning.
- Team Leadership: Directly manage a diverse team, including a Livestock Manager, four cowboys/ranch hands, an Operations Foreman, H2A workers, and part-time help.
- Versatility: Possess the ability and willingness to fill in for any key ranch employee (e.g., cowboy, equipment operator) if they were to quit, ensuring no interruption in operations.
- Protocol Development: Collaborate with senior management and existing staff to develop and refine operational protocols relative to experience.
- Culture Building: Foster a work environment that attracts the right folks
- Administrative Balance: Balance administrative duties (protocols, policies) with the physical demands of the job.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Technical Agricultural Knowledge: Core strengths must include deep knowledge of cattle, equipment, and general ranch operations.
- Feedyard Experience: There is a strong bias toward candidates with specific experience in feedyard operations, despite being a separate operation.
- Leadership Style: Must be a people manager, capable of leading a traditional ranch crew.
- Operational Mindset: Boots on the ground mentality, distinct from a corporate executive.
- Resilience: Ability to handle the physical demands of the job while maintaining administrative competence.
- Software Proficiency: Must possess the ability to learn proprietary software.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
- Base Salary: Annual base range of $80,000 to $110,000 (depending upon experience)
- Performance Bonus: Annual, depending upon performance
- Health Insurance: Employee reimbursement, moving towards company sponsored plan.
- Paid Time Off: 7 days PTO; 7 days flex time; Major holidays paid time off
- Relocation: Assistance is available.
- Ranch Home: Negotiable
- Beef :)
KEYWORDS
Ranch Manager, Operations Manager, Cattle, Beef, Cow-calf, Stocker, Feedyard, Feedlot, Livestock, Agriculture, Ranching, Billings, Montana, Cowboy, H2A, Farm Management, Agribusiness, Wagyu, Genetics, Sustainability, Leadership, Data-driven management.
CONTACT INFORMATION
AG HeadHunters
info@agheadhunters.com
(615) 686-2099
EEOC STATEMENT:
We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or veteran status. We are also committed to diversity and helping to create an inclusive environment for our clients. If you can do this job you will not be denied consideration.