CGC Oakgrove 4.0

Equine Industry

Sector Outlook According to the British Horse Industry Confederation, the equine industry employs up to 250,000 people. Activities within the sector are based on the ownership of some 600,000 horses covering professional careers, leisure interests and the supply of equine goods and services. Across the UK there are more than 18,000 equestrian businesses including tack shops, feed manufacturers, instructors, photographers, riding holiday centres and specialist recruitment companies. The majority are small or medium sized enterprises employing less than five people. The industry is predicted to experience significant growth although notably some small businesses and riding schools have seen some decline in comparison to other forms of leisure. The extent to which the industry grows will depend upon government support but there is a desire within the sector to generate more interest in riding activities, to promote equestrian tourism, and encourage people to take advantage of the health and educational benefits associated with horses. A key challenge facing the Equine Industry is the ability to attract and retain sufficient numbers of staff. Given this demand, job opportunities are available for those who are keen to get in. Furthermore, if British Horse Industry Confederation is able to achieve its current vision then by 2015 equestrianism should be a high performance business capable of employing a growing workforce. You will have a better chance of getting into the equine industry if you are willing to accept the unconventional lifestyle that it requires. Information about job vacancies can be found on useful websites such as Equine Careers at www.equine-careers.co.uk. Recent vacancies have included equine technician apprentice equine clinical nurse manager, nutrition adviser, saddler sales person, project manager, business development manager, office administrator and senior marketing manager. The industry needs to a diverse workforce ranging from business owners to vets. To recruit the right people it plans to provide work experience and relevant vocational training for young people by strengthening links with schools and colleges. Watch out for initiatives in your local area. There are also plans to establish a job register so you might want to make sure your name is recorded when it becomes available.