Grower Manager - Berries

Step up into a Grower Manager role in a high-tech berry operation

• Work with hydroponics, greenhouses & Priva systems
• Join a fast-growing business with real career progression

Our Client

Our client is a large-scale, innovative horticultural business specialising in premium hydroponic berry production just a 30 minute drive from Timaru. With a strong focus on technology, quality, and people, they are entering an exciting phase of growth and are seeking a Grower Manager to support the General Manager and lead day-to-day growing operations.

The business is scaling rapidly, commencing with 6 hectares in production this year and expanding by a further 6 hectares next year, with significant long-term development planned. This growth creates a genuine opportunity for someone ready to step up into a more senior leadership role.

About the Role

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced grower, supervisor, or assistant manager looking to take the next step in their career within a high-tech, protected cropping environment.

As Grower Manager - Berries, you will act as 2IC to the General Manager, taking ownership of day-to-day growing operations across a hydroponic berry system. This is a hands-on role where you'll balance crop performance with team leadership, working closely with irrigation, crop, and seasonal teams.

Key responsibilities include:

• Day-to-day management of hydroponic berry production
• Monitoring and optimising crop health, yield, and quality
• Leading and supporting supervisors and seasonal team leaders
• Workforce planning aligned to crop cycles and production targets
• Maintaining high standards across food safety, quality, and compliance
• Supporting health & safety and operational best practice
• Working closely with the General Manager on performance reporting and continuous improvement

About You

This role is ideal for someone currently in a grower, leading hand, supervisor, or assistant manager position who is ready to step into a broader leadership role.

You will bring:

• 3-5+ years' experience in horticulture, specifically within berries, tomatoes, or other soft fruit crops
• Experience working in greenhouses, nurseries, or protected cropping systems
• Strong understanding of crop health, plant nutrition, and yield optimisation
• Emerging leadership experience with the confidence to lead teams
• A proactive, hands-on, and solutions-focused mindset
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Full NZ Class 1 Driver Licence

Highly desirable:

• Experience with Priva systems (climate control, irrigation, fertigation)
• Exposure to hydroponic or high-tech growing systems

• Competitive salary package (based on experience)
• Opportunity to step into a senior leadership pathway role
• Work within a modern, high-tech growing environment
• Be part of a rapidly expanding and well-backed horticultural business
• Relocation Assistance

If you're ready to take the next step into a Grower Manager - Berries role within a forward-thinking and ambitious business, we'd love to hear from you.