Orchard Development Manager – Japan (Ref 08/1710/PB)

Introduction

Our client, an internationally respected grower-owned and established organisation,  continually focuses on providing premium quality and value, to their brand of fruit and are known for being the ‘best in the world’. Innovation, a world-class breeding programme dedicated to the development of new varieties concomitant with optimisation of orchard productivity are their key strategies to ensure their leading global reputation.

The five year perspective of this business is one of significant growth and value generation for the benefit of stakeholders. A key part of their strategy is to serve our customers with the best kiwifruit throughout the year and accordingly they have established orchard operations internationally.

Based in Japan, the key purpose of the Orchard Development Manager will be to support new growing partners and the technicians with practical advice and training.  Large scale orchard development is very new in Japan and there is very limited experience.  Hence, you will provide exceptional levels of service and commitment to all areas of orchard development from initial site selection to construction and orchard establishment. This process will require thorough evaluation of the risks and challenges unique to the Japanese orchard and post-harvest environment.

Requirements

Key responsibilities of this role will include;

• Assessing and selecting sites against organisation’s selection criteria including collecting soil samples for analysis, following through to recommendations for site preparation, orchard layout and construction.
• Work with new growing partners in a ‘hands on’ manner to support all aspects of rapid orchard establishment including vine planting & training, fertiliser application, irrigation, canopy development, etc.
• Setup and manage a trial block in Miyazaki, Japan, with a focus on evaluating new varieties. Managing regional nurseries to ensure sufficient resources for progressive orchard development.
• Hands on participation in any on orchard work that may be required including orchard monitoring and mapping, trial work, sample collection, etc.
• Meticulous recording and reporting of all key orchard data that can help with learning and the transfer of successful growing techniques including contribution to the development of grower manuals.
• Build strong relationships and maintain open communication pathways with growers and other key stakeholders.
• Diligently communicating/reporting on orchard operations in your region including any commercial, social or political developments that may influence the orchard operations.

To be considered for this role, you will ideally have the following skills and attributes;

• Minimum 5 years’ practical experience in orchard development and management.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills at all levels of the business whilst consistently upholding the organisation’s values and ethics.
• Sound management experience with the ability to plan projects well in advance, taking into account resources, deviations and deadlines.
• Strategic ability to identify issues and opportunities and develop communications solutions that deliver on business goals and values.
• Intuitive and logical problem solving skills where you are able to make informed decisions.
• Self-motivated, resilient with a ‘can do’ attitude and a high level of flexibility to adapt to change in circumstances.
• Intermediate computer skills (Word, Excel)
• Full NZ driver license and comfortable driving long distances.
• Flexibility on work hours – some weekend work may be required during the busy season.

Key to your success will be your ability to develop and maintain strong networks/relationships with the growers and other key stakeholders to achieve successful outcomes.

This pivotal role within the organisation’s Global Expansion Strategy will be awarded by a competitive remuneration package and assistance with relocation. To learn more about this outstanding opportunity  apply online today with a CV and Cover letter in WORD format only, quoting job number  08/1710/PB or call Pavan on 09 5255520 for a confidential discussion.