Growing Manager – Fresh Produce

Pure Staff Ltd; Hereford; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural company in Hereford seeks a Growing Manager to oversee all aspects of plant life cycles from propagation to harvest. Responsibilities include developing crop plans, diagnosing crop issues, and leading growing teams. The ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge of modern fruit growing techniques and strong problem-solving skills. Competitive salary offered, ranging from £25,000 to £65,000 per annum, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Strong problem-solving skills and commercially focused.
• In-depth knowledge of modern protected soft fruit growing techniques.
• Ability to plan and manage multiple production areas.

Responsibilities

• Manage plant life cycles from propagation to harvest.
• Develop crop plans for various growth environments.
• Diagnose and resolve crop issues effectively.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Knowledge of modern fruit growing techniques

Planning and organization

Communication skills

Team leadership skills

Relationship building

Education

Preferable certifications: FACTS, BASIS, PRIVA, PA1, PA2, PA6a/b

Job description

Position: Job Type: Location: Posted: Salary: Growing Manager – Fresh Produce Permanent Hereford, Herefordshire Posted 1 day ago £25000 - £65000 per annum + DOE

Responsibilities

• Manage plant life cycles from propagation to harvest, including flower mapping and variety optimisation.
• Develop crop plans for glasshouses, heated tunnels, and traditional tunnels, with long-term forecasting for commercial needs.
• Diagnose and resolve crop issues, creating effective solutions.
• Plan crop costs, labour, and annual husbandry tasks with the operations team.
• Use PRIVA for heating, irrigation, and fertigation strategies; adjust feed and substrate as required.
• Design and deliver biological and spray programs, including environmental assessments.
• Report monthly against budgets, maintain accurate records, and lead audits.
• Lead and support growing teams, aligning work with business priorities and customer requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement across the farm, enhancing processes, OTIF performance, and customer value.
• Ensure compliance with company and statutory policies and procedures.

Skills

• Practical, decisive, and commercially focused with strong problem-solving skills.
• In-depth knowledge of modern protected soft fruit growing techniques.
• Strong planning, organisation, and attention to detail across multiple production areas.
• Experienced, hands-on grower with excellent communication and team leadership skills.
• Ability to build productive cross-functional relationships.
• Preferable certifications: FACTS, BASIS, PRIVA, PA1, PA2, PA6a/b.
• (INDPERM)