SUMMARY:
Introduction
A 35-hectare blueberry farm in the Porterville district is seeking a Production Manager to join its operations team. The farm cultivates four different blueberry cultivars under net and exports primarily to Europe, employing approximately 600 workers during the picking season (July to November).
The Production Manager will be responsib...
POSITION INFO:
Introduction A 35-hectare blueberry farm in the Porterville district is seeking a Production Manager to join its operations team. The farm cultivates four different blueberry cultivars under net and exports primarily to Europe, employing approximately 600 workers during the picking season (July to November). The Production Manager will be responsible for the financial and physical performance of day-to-day farm operations, managing a team of supervisors and overseeing production activities from land development through to harvesting and farm maintenance. You will implement the business's short- and long-term strategic plans and report to the Farm Manager. Key Responsibilities Direct, coordinate and assist section worker activities, including planting, fertigation, chemical application, harvesting and record keeping Organise, plan and prioritise work by developing specific goals and objectives for each section, aligned to the business strategy Inspect production areas to determine crop maturity dates and consider block targets identified in the strategic plan Conduct soil and leaf analysis for fertigation and pest\/disease management Implement operating methods and procedures according to standards Ensure maintenance of production areas and routine maintenance of equipment Inspect equipment to ensure proper functioning and communicate with the estate manager on required purchases for machinery, equipment and supplies Monitor progress against budget and report trends or variances to the estate manager Participate in preparation and control of annual production budgets Schedule senior team leaders for daily activities Direct, guide, coach, mentor and motivate employees; set performance standards in collaboration with them and monitor performance Ensure employee development and capacity building Assist newly employed staff with induction and integration into the team Monitor and enforce employee adherence to safety regulations, policies and procedures Ensure adequate workforce for efficient and effective farm operation Conduct soil\/leaf analysis for fertigation and pest\/disease management Ensure operational business risks in each section are identified early and mitigated Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures and industry regulations (e.g. SIZA, Global G.A.P.) Ensure quality assurance to quality standards Maintain records of all documents and administrative information Communicate internally and externally with management, peers, subordinates, customers, government and others by telephone, written format or email Requirements A relevant tertiary degree Minimum 5 years' relevant farm production experience Technical understanding of fruit production functions and horticultural practices Knowledge of good agricultural practices and crop production Basic financial management Basic human resources legislation, especially those relevant to everyday operations MS Office proficiency (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) Detail and results orientated approach Ability to work under pressure Strong people-management skills, relationship building and interpersonal relations Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Strong leadership skills Excellent planning and organisational skills Excellent communication skills, verbal and written Preferred: Certificates in farming activities such as irrigation, scouting and plant production
