LIC is a farmer-owned co-operative that’s been supporting herd improvement in New Zealand’s dairy sector for more than 115 years. We’re focused on providing superior genetics, reliable testing and diagnostics, integrated on-farm software, and great customer service, all designed to help farmers make smarter decisions every day.

As a proud generational co-operative, we’re here for farmers, their families, and rural communities, not just for today, but for the future. And none of it happens without our people. Whether on farm, in the lab, or behind the scenes, every one of us plays a part in helping New Zealand farmers succeed.

About the Role:

The Breeding Manager is a critical leadership role within LIC’s Research & Development group, reporting to the Livestock Selection Manager.

You will lead the Breeding team responsible for the design, delivery, and execution of LIC’s dairy and non‑dairy breeding programmes, which underpin the organisation’s genetic products and long‑term market position. Working in close partnership with the Operations and Systems Manager, you share accountability for the end‑to‑end breeding pipeline — from the selection and acquisition of elite bull candidates through to successful breeding and sire proving programmes.

This role ensures LIC maintains a competitive edge in elite genetics by securing, managing, and developing high‑quality bull and future bull‑dam candidates aligned with market needs.

You will provide strong technical and people leadership to a team of breeding specialists and analysts, while also maintaining trusted external relationships with breeders, breed societies, and key industry partners.

The role leads a team across dairy and non‑dairy breeding and analytical support.

Your Key Focus:

Breeding Programme Leadership

• Set the strategic direction and lead delivery of dairy and non‑dairy breeding programmes.

• Ensure programmes deliver genetic outcomes aligned with LIC’s long‑term strategy.

• Oversee the identification and development of elite bulls and future bull dams.

Bull Acquisition & Sire Proving

• Lead bull acquisition across relevant breeds to support sire proving programmes.

• Maintain a strong market position for elite genetics, with a focus on top‑tier performance outcomes.

• Manage key breeder relationships and negotiations to secure high‑quality genetics.

People & Team Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing team of breeding specialists and analysts.

• Build capability across breeding design, analysis, and delivery.

• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Stakeholder & Industry Engagement

• Build trusted relationships with breeders, breed societies, and industry partners.

• Represent LIC with credibility across the dairy and dairy‑beef sectors.

• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment and effective delivery.

Partnership with Operations & Systems

• Partner closely with the Operations and Systems Manager to ensure breeding programmes are scalable, well‑governed, and operationally sound.

• Ensure systems, data, and processes effectively support breeding outcomes.

Global Genetics & Market Insight

• Stay across global genetics trends, emerging technologies, and best practice.

• Monitor competitors and market dynamics to inform breeding priorities.

• Translate insight into actions that strengthen LIC’s genetic position.

About You:

• Relevant tertiary qualification in agriculture, science, genetics, or related discipline.

• Demonstrated leadership experience with highly developed interpersonal skills with the ability to lead, motivate, and develop technical teams.

• Strong knowledge of dairy farming systems and the New Zealand dairy industry, with empathy for farmers and breeding stakeholders especially in livestock breeding and reproductive technologies.

• Proven experience and expertise in breeding scheme design and/or genetic programme delivery.

• Strong relationship-building and communication skills with breeders and industry partners.

• High-level analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking capability.

• Understanding of global dairy genetics, market trends, competitors, and industry forces.

In Return:  

In addition to a competitive salary, you'll receive some great benefits including:

• Extra leave days

• Flexible working options

• Discounted health, life, income and disability insurances

• Access to our employee shares scheme

• Wellbeing discounts

• Free onsite parking

• Our Hamilton office is located in a park-like setting, with tennis court, pool, and onsite café and social club!

This is a highly visible and pivotal role, where you'll have plenty of opportunity to achieve great results. You'll be joining a values-led, progressive organisation, where you'll play a role in driving the future of dairy in NZ.