About the Opportunity

R&D Farming is responsible for the execution of research trials designed by breeders, variety developers, nursery or applied research.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the agronomy of all crops, both in substrate and soil production systems, working with the existing research farm teams to grow the crops to best commercial practice.
• Develop and implement sustainable research farm systems to deliver high quality data for both plant breeding and applied research trials so they can accurately guide commercial decisions.
• Lead and empower the team and improve the overall technical knowledge of the research farm staff and strengthen the knowledge base of the research farm teams. Mentor and onboard new research farm staff and foster development and collaboration.
• Ensure the research farms operate within the approved budgetary targets by managing and monitoring expenditures accordingly, including larger capital purchases.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the research farms and ensure implementation of plans in alignment with plant breeders and applied research.
• Develop, design and implement high-quality processes and improvements in research farms and lead the development of new technologies in the breeding research farms.
• Oversee the team’s pest and disease scouting and management. Ensure weed management with a clean and organized area.
• Accountable for equipment maintenance and worker safety.
• Manage an Administrative Assistant, Technical Grower and Test Plot Lead Supervisor.
• Manage land leases and landlord relationships.
• Develop land plans and rotations with breeders.
• Responsible for reviewing/approving all administrative paperwork for the farm crews in regard to payroll, training, evaluations, promotions and terminations.
• Design and implement systems to efficiently manage labour and equipment.
• Follow Company policies and practices while representing Driscoll’s in an ethical and business-like manner in all interactions with employees, governmental agencies, growers, customers, etc.
• Ensure the security of Driscoll’s confidential and proprietary information and materials.

Candidate Profile

• A Bachelor’s degree (with at least 8 years of experience) or a Master’s degree (with at least 5 years of experience) in Horticulture, Biology, Biochemistry or Agriculture, with comprehensive understanding of horticulture crops and agronomy, plant physiology and plant genetics.
• Significant experience of managing complex horticultural sites involving large teams of full-time and seasonal staff.
• Plan and manage budgets and prioritizing expenditure within set guidelines.
• Knowledge of the agronomy of horticultural crops from seedling to harvesting.
• Berry production knowledge including direct experience with soft fruit production would be highly desirable.
• Practical experience of farming practices including equipment operation and management, irrigation management, and pest control.
• Knowledge and experience of agricultural research would be an added advantage.
• Feel comfortable working in field, office and corporate settings, and able and willing to perform hard, repetitive physical work as necessary.
• Occasional travel to other farming locations in Europe and Africa and at times, overseas.
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance program are also required.
• Bilingual (Portuguese/English) strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computer programs (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook).
• Ability to work with key stakeholders and manage multiple projects across the enterprise.
• Open attitude to try new systems and new technologies in farming.
• Collaborative attitude towards breeding, entomology, and applied research customers, with the highest level of service.

Competencies important for this role:

• Excellent communication and reporting skills.
• Project management skills.
• Leadership and Management skills.
• Budgeting and financial skills.
• Creative, innovative and result oriented team player.

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