Exploring New Horizons as a Stable Manager
More than just mucking stalls, the role of a stable manager offers a diverse landscape of opportunities! So forget the corporate treadmill and saddle up instead for a career that offers anything but routine. Welcome to the world of stable management, where passion meets purpose, every day is an adventure and your daily grind involves grooming, training, and nurturing a barn full of horses.
In this post in our series of equine career guides, we consider at the role of a stable manager. These are often the unsung heroes of an equine establishment. What is involved in becoming one? What skills, and personal attributes do you need, and what are the responsibilities and duties? We also look at potential career paths and more.
What Is A Stable Manager?
A stable manager is responsible for the overall management of a horse stable or housing facility. This includes overseeing the care of horses, coordinating staff, managing facilities, and also ensuring the smooth operation of the stable.
Equine Stable Manager Vs Equine Facility Manager Vs Equine Business Manager
While stable managers, equine facilities managers and equine business managers all deal with the care and wellbeing of horses, and some of their duties and responsibilities may overlap, they do have distinct roles and responsibilities. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences –
| Feature | Stable Manager | Equine Facility Manager | Equine Business Manager |
| Scope of Responsibility | Specific stable and horses | Entire equine facility (multiple stables, arenas, etc.) | Overall business (includes equine facility + other revenue streams) |
| Focus | Horse care, | Administration, | Finances, |
| Daily operations, | Budgets, | Marketing, | |
| Staff supervision | Personnel, | Sales, | |
| Maintenance, | Strategic planning, | ||
| Compliance | Customer relations | ||
| Duties | Feed, groom, exercise horses, | Manage budgets, | Analyse financials, |
| Clean stalls, | Oversee staff, | Develop marketing strategies, | |
| Manage staff, | Ensure compliance, | Manage sales, | |
| Monitor health | Plan events, | Build client relationships, | |
| Handle marketing | Oversee facility manager and stable manager | ||
| Education & Experience | Certificate/diploma + horse handling experience or on-the-job training | Bachelor’s degree + experience in equine industry or management | Bachelor’s degree in business or related field + experience in equine industry |
| Skills | Animal care, | Budgeting, | Marketing, |
| Horsemanship, | Leadership, | Sales, | |
| Organisation, | Communication, | Finance, | |
| Teamwork, | Problem-solving, | Strategic planning, | |
| Supervision | Facility management | Business development, |
Stable Manager – Key Skills, Responsibilities, And Duties
As a stable manager, you’ll be involved in the daily administration of the stable. That includes interacting with the horses, supervising their feeding and care, managing other staff members, liasing with the Facilities and Business Managers, talking to clients and owners and so on. It is a role that suits someone who enjoys the atmosphere of a stable and being around horses without necessarily doing all the hard work yourself! However, you will have to be prepared to pitch in and use a pitchfork as required.
Skill Requirements for Stable Managers
Beyond a love for horses, becoming a stable manager also requires a variety of talents. From a comprehensive knowledge of horses to leadership and communication skills, as well as a cool head in emergencies… If this sounds like you, you’re probably the perfect fit for a stable manager!
The table below sets out the main skills, responsibilities and duties of a stable manager. These will vary depending on your employer.
Stable Manager Key Skills, Responsibilities, And Duties
| Skills | Responsibilities | Duties |
| Horse Knowledge | Horse Care Oversight | Staff Scheduling and Training |
| – Understanding of horse care, health, and behaviour. | – Manage feeding, grooming, turnout, and exercise schedules. | – Create work schedules. |
| – Monitor health and well-being, coordinate with veterinarians. | – Delegate tasks. | |
| – Implement preventive care measures and record keeping. | – Provide training. | |
| Management Skills | Staff Management | Budget Management |
| – Lead and coordinate staff. | – Recruit, train, and supervise stable hands, grooms, and other staff. | – Handle finances. |
| – Manage budgets. | – Delegate tasks, monitor performance, and provide feedback. | – Purchase supplies. |
| – Oversee day-to-day operations. | – Foster a positive and productive work environment. | – Manage expenses. |
| – Maintain financial records. | ||
| Communication | Facility Maintenance | Emergency Response |
| – Strong communication skills for dealing with staff, clients, and industry professionals. | – Ensure cleanliness and safety of stables, arenas, pastures, and equipment. | – Be prepared for emergencies like injuries, illness, or natural disasters. |
| – Manage maintenance schedules and repairs. | ||
| – Implement biosecurity protocols and animal welfare standards. | ||
| Problem Solving | Client Relations | Record Keeping |
| – Quick thinking and effective problem-solving skills, especially in emergencies. | – Communicate with horse owners, trainers, and clients. | – Maintain accurate records of horse health, breeding, and facility management. |
| – Coordinate boarding arrangements, schedules, and payments. | ||
| – Handle client inquiries and resolve concerns. | ||
| Organisation | Administrative Duties: | Communication and Reporting |
| – Planning, scheduling, record keeping, and attention to detail. | – Manage budgets, purchase supplies, and track expenses. | – Communicate effectively with staff, clients, and industry professionals. |
| – Maintain records of horse health, breeding, and facility operations. | – Prepare reports and share updates as needed. | |
| – Prepare reports and communicate with authorities as needed. |
Stable Manager Certifications and Licenses
Although some people work their way into a stable manager position by virtue of many years of experience, most qualify by obtaining relevant training. There are a number of certificates, diplomas, and degrees available in Australia that will get your foot in the door. These provide a basic theoretical knowledge and also on-job experience in some cases.
You can for example take one of the following and move on from there. Most states have similar options although the titles may vary. Many of these courses are also offered online.
Certificates
Certificate IV in Small Business (Stable Manager)
Overview: Ideal qualification for starting a career as a Stable Manager because it covers all aspects of managing a stable.
Certificate III in Horse Breeding
Provider: GOTAFE
Overview: Learn breeding techniques, foal management, and stud farm practices.
Certificate III in Equine Studies
Various Providers
Overview: Gain general horse care, handling, and stable management skills.
Certificate III in Racing (Stable hand)
Various Providers
Overview: Entry-level qualification for racing stables, covering basic horse care and stable duties.
Certificate III in Horse Care
Provider: TAFE NSW
Overview: Nationally accredited qualification at Certificate III level, providing specialist skills for equine management.
Advanced Certificate in Applied Management (Horses)
Provider: ACS Distance Education
Overview: Online equine management course covering horse care, psychology, pasture management, and also stable design.
Degrees
Bachelor of Equine Science
University of Queensland / Charles Sturt University
Overview: Comprehensive study of equine health, nutrition, behaviour, and management.
Diplomas
Diploma of Performance Horse Management
Provider: Training Gov
Overview: Australian Government qualification for individuals carrying out stud and stable management duties.
Diploma of Equine Management
Provider: Training.gov.au
Overview: Qualification for individuals working in a management capacity in equine establishments.
Diploma of Horse Breeding (Stud Management)
Provider: Department of Education Victoria
Overview: Focus on stud stable management duties and ensuring safety.
Advanced Diploma of Equine Business Management
Provider: Marcus Oldham College
Overview: Intensive one-year programme covering practical and horse management skills.
General Courses
Professional Horse & Stable Manager
Provider: International Horse College
Overview: Distance learning course focused on horse care and management within the Australian equine industry.
Equine Business Management
Provider: Courses.com.au
Overview: Course focusing on the business aspects of horses, including some horse care units.
Horse Breeding & Equine Studies Courses
Provider: Training.com.au
Overview: Various courses offering pathways to roles like Horse Breeder, Trainer, Stable Manager, and more.
Stable Yard Manager Course
Provider: International Horse College
Overview: Online course recognized by many countries, including Australia, for stable management.
Equine Care | Online Training Course
Provider: ACS Distance Education
Overview: Learn equine feed and nutrition, stable management, and conditioning online.
FEI Campus
Provider: Equestrian Australia
Overview: Online platform offering training and management tips for stable management.
Horse Training & Stable Hand Courses
Provider: Skillinvest
Overview: Equine training courses covering extensive horse care knowledge.
Additional Resources
Equestrian Australia Member’s Education
Online platform with training modules on stable management, horse care, and other topics.
Australian Equine Institute
Offers various horse care and training courses, including stable management modules.
Skillinvest
Provides equine training courses, including stable hand and advanced stable management programmes.
FEI Campus
Online platform with educational programme s on stable management, veterinary needs, and equine behaviour.
International Horse College also offers a range of online courses for various horse industry careers.
Tips For Degree and Certification Hunting
Firstly, consider your career goals and choose a qualification that aligns with your desired specialisation.
Secondly, combine formal training with practical experience in stables to gain well-rounded skills.
Thirdly, look for accredited courses and reputable training providers.
Finally, network with other stable managers and professionals in the equine industry.
Additional Resources
Department of Education and Training Victoria
First Aid Certificate: Recommended for handling emergencies.
Career Paths for Stable Managers
Many stable managers start out as stable hands and progress to management level with experience and training. And, although the primary demand for many equine industry professionals does come from the racing industry, there are many other types of stables requiring stable managers:
Equine Sports and Competition
Show Stables
Manage stables for competition horses in disciplines like show jumping, dressage, eventing, and western riding.
Training Stables
Assist horse trainers by managing horse care, scheduling, and client relations.
Endurance Riding
Oversee horses and riders in competitive long-distance riding events.
Polo Stables
Manage polo ponies for professional riders or polo clubs.
Equine Therapy and Recreation
Therapeutic Riding Centers
Manage horses and staff in programme s for individuals with disabilities.
Equine-Assisted Learning
Care for horses used in programme s that combine horsemanship with personal development activities.
Riding Schools
Oversee horses and manage lessons for beginner and advanced riders.
Camping and Trekking Outfitters
Manage horse operations for guided wilderness adventures or overnight campouts.
Equine Services and Businesses
Agistment Stables
Manage a facility that provides stabling, care, and services for other people’s horses.
Sales and Training Facilities
Assist in buying, selling, and training horses for various purposes.
Equine Rehabilitation Centres
Manage horses recovering from injuries or undergoing physiotherapy.
Equine Massage and Alternative Therapy
Combine stable management with your own equine massage or therapy business.
Other Opportunities
Equine Education and Research
Assist university programme s or research teams with horse care and management.
Conservation and Wildlife Management
Utilise your horse handling skills in programmes protecting wild horses or other animals.
Equine Film and Television
Manage horses used in film and television productions.
Independent Consulting
Offer your expertise to breeders, trainers, riders, or other equine businesses.
Work Environment of Stable Managers
Stable Managers work in diverse environments, including stables, training arenas, and offices. You may also live on-site in order to provide 24/7 care for the horses.
Expect the work to be physically demanding, and involve outdoor work, lifting, and hands-on horse care. It can be a fast-paced dynamic environment with a never-ending potential for emergencies and unexpected situations – we are dealing with horses!
So, be prepared for early mornings, late evenings, and all-weather conditions in this rewarding but often demanding job.
Salary Range for Stable Managers in Australia (2024)
The Australian horse industry is thriving! Stable managers can expect a salary range of $50,000 to $80,000 AUD annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the operation.
Job Outlook for Stable Managers in Australia
Courtesy of Australia’s massive horse industry – we have 1 horse for every 25 people – the job outlook for most equine careers is positive. There are plenty of opportunities in racing stables, on stud farms, and within various other equine facilities.
Overview of a Career as a Stable Manager
A career as a stable manager is a fulfilling journey for those passionate about horses and skilled in equine management. With the right qualifications, skills, and dedication, you can carve out a successful and rewarding path in the vibrant Australian horse industry.
