At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the production and supply strategy for raspberries and blackberries across Northern Europe.
- Company: Join Driscoll's, the global leader in fresh berries with a culture of passion and trust.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a visible impact and grow within a dynamic global organisation.
- Other info: Work in a collaborative environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Be the vital link between growers and teams, driving sustainable success in the soft fruit industry.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in soft fruit, strong stakeholder management, and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About the Opportunity
Are you an experienced leader within the soft fruit industry with a passion for raspberries and blackberries?
Do you have the ability to bring growers, supply chain teams, commercial teams, and operational functions together around a shared goal?
If so, this is a unique opportunity to play a key role within Driscoll's, the global market leader in fresh berries.
As Senior Production Manager, Rubus Northern Europe, you will be responsible for the development, growth, and execution of the raspberry and blackberry category across Northern Europe.
You will work closely with growers, supply chain, commercial teams, agronomy, forecasting, and quality functions to create a sustainable and profitable future for both our growers and our business.
This role combines strategic leadership, stakeholder management, and operational execution.
You will serve as the critical link between our growers and the wider organization, ensuring that plans are not only developed but successfully delivered.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the production and supply strategy for raspberries and blackberries across Northern Europe.
- Translate supply and demand plans into actionable grower production plans.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with growers, acting as their primary point of contact within Driscoll's.
- Lead business reviews, planning sessions, and grower visits.
- Support growers with operational, financial, and strategic challenges to enhance profitability and sustainability.
- Align production, forecasting, demand planning, and operational capabilities to ensure reliable customer supply.
- Partner closely with Supply Chain, Packaging, Logistics, Quality, Commercial, Master Planning, and Product Business Management teams to deliver outstanding results.
- Identify and mitigate risks related to production, quality, supply, and operations.
- Create alignment across departments and stakeholders throughout the organization.
- Lead strategic initiatives and drive continuous improvement within the Rubus category.
- Identify growth opportunities, investment priorities, and innovative solutions that strengthen the category.
- Support the development and execution of the long-term Northern European Rubus strategy.
- Success in This Role
Success in this position means building trusted relationships with growers, effectively connecting internal teams, and ensuring strategies are translated into measurable results.
You know how to bring people together, create alignment across functions, and make a direct contribution to the growth and long-term success of the Northern European Rubus category.
Why Driscoll's?
At Driscoll's, you'll join the global market leader in fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
For more than 100 years, we have partnered with independent growers to deliver the finest berries to consumers around the world.
Our culture is built on passion, humility, and trustworthiness.
We believe in long-term partnerships, innovation through natural breeding, and continuously improving everything we do.
Here, you'll have the opportunity to make a visible impact within a global organization that continues to grow and evolve.
Candidate Profile
You are an experienced professional within the soft fruit or horticultural sector who can seamlessly move between strategic thinking and operational execution.
You have the ability to turn complex challenges into practical solutions and excel at building relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
In addition, you bring
- A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Agricultural Business, or a related field (preferred).
- A minimum of 10 years of experience within the soft fruit industry (preferred).
- Broad experience across multiple disciplines, including production, agronomy, supply chain, packing operations, nursery operations, and harvest management.
- Strong technical knowledge of raspberries, blackberries, or other berry crops, including production curves, varieties, and plant types.
- Excellent analytical skills and experience with forecasting and production planning.
- Outstanding communication skills and the ability to simplify complex information for diverse audiences.
- Proven stakeholder management experience within an international environment.
- Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel.
- A valid driver's license and willingness to travel regularly to growers and operational sites.
Senior Production Manager, Rubus Northern Europe in Maidstone employer: Driscoll's
Driscoll's is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative work culture in Maidstone, where employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills in the food safety sector. With a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, team members enjoy opportunities for continuous improvement and professional development while contributing to the delivery of the finest berries in the market.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Production Manager, Rubus Northern Europe in Maidstone
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Driscoll's often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Production Manager, Rubus Northern Europe in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Driscoll's does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Driscoll's
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Driscoll's will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Driscoll's.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Driscoll's.
