Perthshire farm uses social media in hunt for new shepherd

A working historic estate has used social media in an effort to find a new shepherd amid an ongoing “talent crunch”.

Monzie Farms, in Crieff, launched the plea following the retirement of current shepherd, Stevie, after 27 years in the role.

The estate, which is 4,500 acres and has 1,500 ewes which lamb in April, said they are using social media to aid the search as they are struggling to fill the live in position.

Comprising of several businesses – including a 1950s hydro electric plant, a joinery company and holiday accommodation – the farm straddles the Highlands and Lowlands, and also hosts weddings at its castle.

Anyone interested in the role is invited to visit the estate and stay in a cottage, meet the owners, have a castle tour, and, of course, meet your future colleagues – the sheep.

The post from Monzie farms explains: “After 27 years, our wonderful shepherd Stevie is retiring. Like everyone, we are suffering from the talent crunch and we only managed to fill the Hydro maintenance job by asking literally everyone we came across if they knew an engineer.

“This time we’re taking to social media and hope if we spread the message far and wide, we will be inundated with applications!

“It’s a beautiful and convenient location, three miles to the town of Crieff, with excellent shops and schools and only an hour to Edinburgh and Glasgow.

“The owners live and work alongside their team, many who have worked here for upwards of 20 years, it’s a nice place to work with considerate employers.

“We are looking for a full time shepherd, we want someone to enjoy the job and take pride in something they can do full time and get the same fulfilment that Stevie does.”

Interested candidates can apply for the role at info@monzieestate.com.