Description
A leading international and innovative grower of berries and organics for over 30 years in the UK and South Africa, is recruiting graduate growers who are passionate, motivated, and eager to improve themselves, for a one-year Graduate Development Programme in the UK and South Africa.
Graduates will work for 6 months in the UK at the berry operations, and 6 months at the local operation in South Africa. The aim is future succession planning and permanent employment either in the UK or South Africa.
KEY FOCUS AREAS:
- Crop & Harvest Management (Glass House Production Unit)
- Support all aspects of plant husbandry (e.g. stock control, crop care, sprays and bio distribution, worm care, irrigation, environmental control, and pest and disease management).
- Support all aspects of harvest management (e.g. harvest planning, quality and quantity control, labour productivity and efficiency, and equipment maintenance).
- Assist in preparing and implementing daily and weekly work schedules, including targets, methods, and labour allocation.
- Monitor and maintain crop and harvest quality to meet Haygrove and retailer standards.
- Team Leadership & People Management
- Lead by example, showing enthusiasm, efficiency, and effective planning.
- Support recruitment, training, motivation, and supervision of harvest and husbandry teams.
- Monitor workforce performance and support grievance/disciplinary procedures in line with HR guidance.
- Promote a positive and motivated team environment.
- Planning & Reporting
- Contribute to long-term planning and provide strategic ideas for improvements and cost savings.
- Input into and monitor costs against agreed budget figures, reporting monthly variances.
- Attend and contribute to green sheet meetings.
- Prepare and deliver daily and weekly reports for the Farm Director/Operations Manager.
- Attend and contribute to senior management meetings as required.
- Compliance & Safety
- Ensure Health & Safety standards are met across all growing, husbandry, and harvest activities.
- Carry out risk assessments and promote safe use of equipment.
- Act as a trained First Aider when required, supporting emergency procedures.
- Continuous Improvement & Business Contribution
- Identify and share improvement ideas for crop care, harvest efficiency, and cost management.
- Maintain strong communication with team members, peer managers, and senior management.
- Be available for out-of-hours support in emergencies.
Undertake additional duties as directed by the Directors.
Key Skills Required:
Degree (or equivalent) in Agriculture, Horticulture, Crop Production, Biological Sciences, Agri-Business or related field.
- Demonstrated interest in crop production, horticulture, or sustainable agriculture (through studies, projects, or practical work).
- Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to motivate others.
- Enthusiastic, adaptable, and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends during peak season.
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Previous experience in soft fruit production, crop husbandry, or harvest work (e.g., seasonal/farm work, placements, or internships).
- Knowledge of basic agronomy/horticulture, pest and disease management, irrigation, or plant nutrition.
- Experience in leading or supervising small teams (could be from work, sports, volunteering, or university projects).
- Basic understanding of Health & Safety in a workplace environment.
- Drivier's licence (to allow movement between sites).