Orchard Manager

16th January, 2024
Your Employer
Our client boasts a forward thinking, innovative approach to agriculture, and continually invest in their properties to ensure they are not only well-staffed but equip with modern infrastructure and equipment. Their diverse portfolio spans across citrus, avocados and berries to name a few.
They are also widely recognised for their genuine commitment to investing in their people, supporting local communities, implementing best practice management, and adopting sustainable farming practices.
Your Role
As the Farm / Orchard Manager, you will play a key role in managing and overseeing the daily operations of our client's 600ha property, consisting mainly of Citrus (plus some avocado and vines). This property is perfectly located just outside of Renmark, SA, and equipped with modern infrastructure, equipment and more importantly an experienced team of 15 permanent staff. To include Irrigation, Operations & Harvest Managers - allowing you to work Monday - Friday.
Collaborating with the regional manager, agronomists and support resources, you will be focusing on enhancing crop yields and maintaining fruit quality. You will also be focused on safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness while fostering a positive working environment for all.
Further to the above, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to –

• Develop and implement strategic farm operations plans in collaboration with the Regional Operations Manager.
• Manage irrigation schedules and spray programs in alignment with company specifications.
• Develop annual harvest program, including labour scheduling and crop estimates.
• Ensure farm operates within budget, proactively identifying and reporting variances or unexpected costs.
• Assist in prioritising costs and capital expenditure.
• Mentor and coach staff on safety standards, performance objectives, and respectful conduct.
• Promote and adhere to Work Health and Safety Policy.

About You
Our ideal candidate will come with experience in a similar role, preferably within tree cropping, but more importantly be passionate about adding value to their team and farm.
To be successful in this role, it is important you can address the following –

• Experience managing tree-cropping properties
• 'ChemCert' Chemical Handling Certificate.
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of irrigation and fertigation programs.
• Able to work flexibly and demonstrate problem-solving skills.
• Current driver’s license.

Individuals looking to progress into Farm Management are encouraged to apply.
Choose Agri Talent
Agri Talent provides permanent recruitment and executive search services exclusively for Australian and NZ agribusinesses. Our extensive network connects high-calibre candidates to diverse and exciting roles with respected clients across the agriculture sector.
For more information or a confidential discussion, please contact Nick Marchant, Partner, Agri Talent: 0476 884 936 or Sai Yan on 0427 715 619.