Junior Production Manager - Indigo

United Exports; Netherlands; On-site; EUR 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

United Exports is seeking a Junior Production Manager to join our farming operations in the Netherlands. You will support planning, coordination, supervision, and administration of key farming activities to ensure efficient production of high-quality fruit crops.

The role requires hands-on farming experience, strong leadership, and commitment to health and safety standards. You will work closely with senior teams to achieve production targets and maintain compliance with GAP, SIZA, and internal

Qualifications

• 2-4 years of farm management experience in a commercial farming environment.
• Experience across crop production activities from land preparation through to harvesting.
• Experience with fruit or berry production and harvesting practices is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and oversee daily farming activities, including planting, fertigation, chemical application, harvesting, pruning, pest and disease management.
• Assist in implementing the farm's strategic and operational plans and develop section-specific goals and activities.
• Schedule and coordinate daily activities for senior team leaders and production teams; monitor attendance and performance.

Skills

Leadership

Planning & Organisation

Supervisory skills

Communication

Problem-solving

Quality focus

Education

Grade 12 / Senior Certificate

Diploma or Degree in Agriculture/Horticulture

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

PowerPoint

Job description

We are seeking a passionate and driven Junior Production Manager to join our production team. This role is ideal for an individual with hands-on farming experience who is eager to develop their leadership capabilities while contributing to the successful production of high-quality fruit crops.The successful candidate will support the planning, coordination, supervision, and administration of key farming activities, ensuring efficient operations and compliance with industry standards.

Key Performance Outputs

Production Management

Coordinate and oversee daily farming activities, including: PlantingFertigationChemical applicationHarvestingPruningPest and disease managementMonitor production methods and ensure adherence to operational standards.Conduct soil and leaf analyses to support fertigation and crop management programmes.Inspect production areas and monitor crop maturity against production targets.Ensure production areas are maintained to the highest standards.

Business & Operational Planning

Assist in implementing the farm's strategic and operational plans.Develop and coordinate section-specific goals and activities.Support efficient resource utilisation to achieve production objectives.

People Management

Schedule and coordinate daily activities for senior team leaders and production teams.Assist with employee induction and integration.Monitor attendance, performance, and productivity.Coach, mentor, and motivate employees to achieve operational goals.Ensure compliance with health and safety policies and procedures.Support employee development and skills enhancement initiatives.

Administration

Maintain accurate production and operational records.Ensure documentation is completed, organised, and filed appropriately.

Asset & Equipment Management

Conduct regular inspections of farm equipment and machinery.Ensure equipment is properly maintained and operated safely.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

Maintain compliance with industry standards and certifications, including:Global G.A.P, SIZA, Internal Quality StandardsEnsure adherence to company policies, procedures, and best practices.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

Grade 12 / Senior Certificate (essential).Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field (preferred).Additional certifications in farming practices such as: Irrigation, Crop scouting, Plant production, Other relevant agricultural disciplines

Experience

2-4 years' relevant farm management experience in a commercial farming environment.Practical experience across crop production activities from land preparation through to harvesting.Experience with fruit or berry production and harvesting practices is advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

• Sound knowledge of horticultural and fruit production practices.
• Understanding of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).
• Basic financial management knowledge.
• Knowledge of relevant labour legislation and workplace regulations.
• Computer literacy, including: Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint

Behavioural Competencies

• Strong leadership and supervisory ability.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong planning and organisational skills.
• Effective problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and results.

Why Join Us?

At our farm, you'll become part of a passionate team dedicated to producing premium-quality fruit while embracing innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement. We believe our people are the foundation of our success and are committed to creating an environment where employees can grow, develop, and make a meaningful impact.If you are passionate about agriculture, enjoy working with people, and are looking for an opportunity to grow your career in a progressive farming business, we'd love to hear from you.