The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of Haygrove Blue Sky, a €7.5m turnover soft fruit farm, ensuring that all activities are carried out efficiently and effectively to maximise yield, productivity, quality, and profitability. This role involves thoughtfully leading the farm team, being the embodiment of Haygrove's culture living our values and behaviours, whilst overseeing planting, growing, and harvesting processes, coordinating with suppliers and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.ResponsibilitiesFarm Operations Management:Oversee day-to-day farm operations, including harvest, husbandry, machinery, irrigation and tunnel management for soft fruits (raspberries and blackberries).Develop and implement farm operational plans and schedules.Monitor crop growth and manage husbandry irrigation, pest control, and fertilisation.Ensure high standards of crop quality and yield.People Management:Embrace leading culture, embodying the Haygrove Values and BehavioursTrain and support the career development of the Agronomist and Harvest ManagerRecruit, train, and supervise farm staff, including seasonal workers.Schedule and assign tasks to ensure efficient labour use.Foster a safe and productive working environment.Conduct performance reviews and provide feedback and training as needed.Environment and Climate Management:Implement water management and sustainability systems to reduce water usage and minimise environmental impact.Develop strategies to mitigate the effects of adverse weather conditions and climate change.Promote biodiversity by growing biologicals for pest control and pollination and through the use of available nonproductive land.Ensure proper waste management and recycling practices are followed on the farm.Resource and Supply Chain Management:Coordinate with suppliers for the timely procurement of plants, fertilisers, pesticides, and other necessary materials.Manage inventory levels to avoid shortages or overstocking.Oversee the maintenance and repair of farm equipment and machinery.Financial Management:Contribute to crop planning decisions and assist in the development of budgets and financial plans for farm operations.Control harvest and non-harvest labour costs, all expenses on materials and implement cost-saving measures.Review regular reports on operational and financial performance and implement operational improvements.Compliance and Safety:Ensure compliance with local, sector and Haygrove regulations and standards regarding agricultural practices, people, safety and environmental.Implement and enforce health and safety protocols on the farm.Stay informed about sector trends, science, environment best practices, and regulatory changes.Quality Control:Implement quality control measures to ensure the production of high-quality soft fruits.Oversee post-harvest handling and storage to maintain fruit quality.Oversee the process of sorting and packaging fruits for market.Customer Relations and Sales:Develop and maintain relationships with marketing agent, distributors, and retailers.Coordinate the logistics of fruit distribution to depot to ensure timely delivery.Education and Experience:Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agribusiness, or a related field preferred.Minimum of 5 years of experience in farm management, preferably in soft fruit production.Proven experience in managing farm operations and staff.Portuguese and English language.Skills and Competencies:Strong leadership and team management skills.Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities.Good understanding of up-to-date horticultural practices and technologies.Ability to operate farm machinery and equipment.Knowledge of crop management, pest control, irrigation and science.Strong financial acumen and budgeting skills.Proficiency in using farm management software and tools.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
