Harvest and Labour Manager

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant must have existing Right to Work in the UK.

Are you an experienced leader of seasonal labour within fresh produce or agriculture? Do you thrive in fast‑paced harvest environments where planning and organisation are key? Are you confident managing large teams to deliver quality, efficiency, and results?

Location of the Job: UK - Suffolk

Salary & Benefits Package: £42,000 - £45,000 (Flexible depending upon experience) plus possible accommodation

Full‑time position with flexibility required during peak seasons. Opportunity to work within a progressive and expanding farming business. Key leadership role within a large‑scale fresh produce operation.

About the Company: Our client is a well‑established and growing fresh produce business with a strong focus on quality, efficiency, and innovation. The business manages significant seasonal labour operations to support harvesting and crop husbandry, ensuring fruit is produced and delivered to the highest standards for UK retailers.

Harvest & Labour Manager - The Job Role Details: An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Harvest & Labour Manager to take responsibility for the planning, coordination, and performance of seasonal labour operations. Reporting to the General Manager, you will play a critical role in ensuring harvesting, husbandry, and labour activities are delivered efficiently, on time, and to the highest quality standards. This is a hands‑on leadership role requiring strong organisation, communication, and people management skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and manage harvesting and seasonal labour activities to ensure work is completed efficiently and on time.
• Develop and communicate daily work schedules and picking plans aligned with crop and spray programmes.
• Manage seasonal workforce logistics including transport, rotas, and workforce allocation.
• Monitor crop quality, field hygiene, and harvesting standards to maximise yield and quality.
• Oversee worker performance, attendance, training, and discipline.
• Ensure accurate yield forecasting and communication with management teams.
• Monitor labour costs and performance against budget.
• Support supervisors to deliver efficient and high‑quality operations.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety, labour regulations, and company policies.
• Maintain strong communication with wider farm and packhouse teams.

Essential Candidate Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience managing seasonal labour within agriculture or fresh produce.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent organisational and planning ability.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast‑paced harvest environment.
• Good understanding of quality standards and field operations.
• Strong communication and problem‑solving skills.

Desirable:

• Experience within soft fruit or horticulture operations.
• Knowledge of labour regulations and workforce compliance.
• Experience with yield forecasting and labour cost management.
• Previous experience managing large teams of seasonal workers.

Working Hours: Full‑time role with flexibility required, particularly during peak harvest periods.

How to Apply: Please click on the 'apply now' button. As we are a specialist recruitment business within the Agricultural and Farming industry, all applicants must hold an NVQ Level 2, Scottish NVQ Level 2, or an equivalent qualification relevant to the role. We thank all applicants who apply for this role; however, only those shortlisted for interview will be contacted. All applications will be handled in strict confidence and personal details will not be shared without prior consent.