STUD GROOM TEAM LEADER
Westbury Stud – Matamata, Waikato
For over 20 years, Westbury Stud has been at the forefront of New Zealand’s thoroughbred industry, breeding elite racehorses that succeed on the global stage.
We’re now looking for an experienced and capable Stud Groom Team Leader to join our team at Westbury Stud, Waikato. You’ll play a key role in overseeing daily horse care across the farm and developing the team around you while contributing to the breeding of future champions.
Why Westbury?
• Work-life balance: Our roster offers 4 days off every fortnight, even during the breeding season (a 10 day roster as opposed to a 12 day roster each fortnight)
• Competitive salary tailored to your experience
• Onsite accommodation and professional development such as mentoring and internal and external professional development opportunities
• Be part of a team dedicated to producing champions
About the Role
This is a hands-on, leadership role where you’ll be responsible for both horse care and team management in areas across the farm to play to your strengths. You’ll guide your team, oversee key routines, and ensure the highest standards of safety and stock management.
Key responsibilities include:
• Overseeing daily care for broodmares, foals, weanlings, yearlings and spellers
• Leading, training, and supporting your team with professionalism and empathy
• Managing teasing, scanning, vet handling, feeding, and reproductive schedules
• Assisting with foaling, weaning, yearling prep, and horse education
• Ensuring accurate records of covers, treatments, and animal health
• Coordinating with vets, farriers, and other teams across the farm
• Maintaining high standards of health, hygiene, and safety
• Supporting planning, reviews, and rosters alongside senior leaders
About You
We’re looking for someone who brings:
• A minimum of 2 years as a Broodmare or Yearling Manager/Team Leader or 5+ years as a Senior Stud Groom/2IC
• Proven experience in breeding, foaling, and mare/foal care
• A strong understanding of reproductive health and equine first aid
• Experience in managing the development of young stock
• A high level of horse handling skill and equine knowledge
• Experience supervising and training staff
• A collaborative mindset and clear communication skills – can actively contribute to a positive, productive team dynamic and team leadership skills
• Confidence in planning and problem-solving
• Physical fitness and willingness to work in all weather
• A valid driver’s licence and reliable transport
The Details
This is a full-time, leadership role working approximately 80 hours per fortnight, from 7:30am–4:30pm, on a ten-on, four-off roster to support a healthy work-life balance.
Start dates are flexible—immediate start available or by mutual agreement.
Apply Now
If you’re passionate about thoroughbred breeding and want to be part of a high-performing, supportive team, we’d love to hear from you.
All applications must be submitted through our HR platform using the ‘Quick Apply’ link.
For any enquiries or technical assistance, please contact us at vacancies@westburystud.com
All applications and expressions of interest are treated in the strictest confidence.
