R&D Test Plot Lead: Innovative Crop Trials in Chatham

About the Opportunity

The Research and Development Test Plot Farm Manager is responsible for installing, executing, and overseeing all aspects of Driscoll's experimental farming and research trials, in coordination with cross‑functional teams. The role includes the accurate collection and distribution of high‑quality data, as well as the organization of open days for local growers. Through optimized farming practices, the R&D Test Plot Manager ensures the production of crops with the highest standards of flavor and yield, facilitating the full expression of new genetic material. This position brings value to the enterprise through strong expertise in crop management, the application of innovative growing practices, and support for the development and deployment of proprietary genetics. In addition, the role is responsible for ensuring that Research Farm teams maintain strong succession plans for key management and operational positions.

Goal of the Position / Key Results Area

To maximize the potential of our proprietary genetics, demonstrating meaningful production systems and engaging with independent growers creating Enterprise value. The main objective of the position is to grow the best crop possible to ensure expressing the full potential of new genetic material. Gain knowledge in growing the crop to bring value to the entire district and enterprise with expertise in new genetic material or growing applications.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the agronomy of all crops in the substrate production system, working with the existing research farm teams to grow the crops using the best commercial practices.
• Support the evaluation and new practice deployment across Driscoll's growers in collaboration with Agronomy.
• Lead and empower the team, 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 all plant material is labelled, inventoried and all appropriate treatments are applied; maintain records of all treatments applied.
• Deploy the necessary cultural operations for Applied Research (AR) trials and observations with data collection.
• Develop and implement sustainable research farm systems to deliver high‑quality data for both plant breeding and AR trials so they can accurately guide commercial decisions.
• Ensure the research farm operates within the approved budgetary targets by managing and monitoring expenditures accordingly.
• Develop, design and implement high‑quality processes and improvements in research farms and lead the development of new technologies in the breeding research farms.
• Review and approve all administrative paperwork for the farm crews regarding payroll, training, evaluations, promotions and terminations.
• Design and implement systems to efficiently manage labor and equipment.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the research farms and ensure implementation of plans in alignment with plant breeders and applied research.
• Accountable for equipment maintenance and worker safety.
• Oversee pest and disease scouting and management; ensure weed management with a clean and organized area.
• 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.
• Other duties as assigned.

Other Responsibilities

• Exhibit Driscoll's values of passion, humility, and trustworthiness in all interactions.
• Work well in a team environment by supporting fairness, a strong work ethic, accountability to the team and leading by example; utilize team building and communication skills to create strong department and company alignment.
• Follow company policies and practices while representing Driscoll's in an ethical and business‑like manner in all interactions with employees, government agencies, growers.
• Ensure the safekeeping of Driscoll's confidential and proprietary information and materials.
• Ad hoc work outside of the parameters as the business need requires.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have the following experience and knowledge:

• 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 a comprehensive understanding of horticulture crops, agronomy, plant physiology and plant genetics.
• Plan and manage budgets and prioritise expenditures within set guidelines.
• Project management and process improvement experience.
• 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 be 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 licence and the ability to be covered under company‑sponsored vehicle insurance program are also required.
• 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

• Strong Leadership and Management skills.
• Excellent communication and reporting skills.
• Strong understanding of Lean principles.
• Performance‑Driven Management.
• Project management skills.
• Budgeting and financial skills.
• Creative, innovative and result‑oriented team player.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range estimated for the Test Plot Manager: $45,000 to $60,000 GBP.

Health + Time Off: Strong health benefits and meaningful paid time off.

Financial + Wellbeing: Employer‑supported annual profit‑sharing bonus, retirement or savings programs and wellbeing resources.

Community + Balance: Time to give back and maintain a healthy work/life balance.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Extra help when life gets complicated.

Professional Growth: Opportunities to acquire business, job‑based and leadership skills.