At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead teams in a hands-on role, managing daily operations in horticulture.
- Company: Join a well-established horticultural business in Kent with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, overtime pay, 23 days holiday, and optional on-site accommodation.
- Other info: Perfect for those who love the outdoors and thrive in dynamic environments.
- Why this job: Enjoy variety in your work and take ownership in a growing team.
- Qualifications: Experience in supervisory roles within horticulture and strong people management skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you a hands-on supervisor who likes to take ownership of the team and the day-to-day operations? Would a role where seasonal differences provide a variety in your responsibilities? An exciting opportunity has arisen for a hands-on Operations Supervisor to join a well-established horticultural business in Kent. Operating across both field production and processing, this role offers variety, responsibility, and the chance to play a key part in a close-knit, growing operation.
This is a practical leadership role within a business that values teamwork, flexibility, and a “get stuck in” attitude. With continued growth, the business is expanding its supervisory team, creating opportunities for individuals to take ownership across key areas of the operation.
The Opportunity
- Competitive Salary
- Overtime paid at time and a half after 39 hours a week
- Monday - Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Friday: 8:00 am - 3:30 pm with weekend work on a rota'd basis
- 23 days holiday + bank holidays
- Pension
- Wet weather PPE provided
- Supportive, team-focused working environment
- Opportunity to take real ownership within a growing business
- Optional on-site accommodation (subject to availability)
The Role
This is a seasonally varied position, combining packhouse/processing leadership during peak months with field-based supervision across the rest of the year. You will lead teams, manage day-to-day operations, and ensure work is delivered safely, efficiently, and to the required quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
Peak Season (October - March) Within the Packhouse
- Oversee processing and grading operations across multiple lines
- Manage agency labour (up to ~20 people at peak) alongside permanent staff
- Maintain quality standards across grading and output
- Organise day-to-day activity within the packhouse, prioritising workloads
- Ensure efficient workflow and effective use of labour
Off-Peak Season (March - October) Driving Field Operations
- Supervise field-based operations
- Manage and organise agency teams
- Oversee crop protection activities (e.g. netting, general crop care)
- Support weeding and general crop maintenance
- Plan labour requirements and organise resources for upcoming work
Year-Round Responsibilities
- Lead and support teams, including team leaders and operatives
- Ensure Health & Safety standards are maintained and risk assessments are up to date
- Drive continuous improvement and review processes
- Take a hands-on approach, supporting wherever needed across the operation
About You
- Proven experience in a supervisory or team leadership role within horticulture, fresh produce, or agriculture
- Strong people management skills, particularly with seasonal or agency labour
- Hands-on approach, comfortable working both in the field and in a packhouse environment
- Good organisational and planning skills
- Practical problem-solver with the ability to adapt to changing demands
- FLT licence desirable (training can be provided)
This role would suit someone who enjoys working outdoors, leading teams, and being part of a business where no two days are the same.
Operations Supervisor in England employer: Morepeople 01780
Contact Detail:
Morepeople 01780 Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Supervisor in England
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research their values, mission, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Operations Supervisor role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to team leadership and operational challenges. Think of examples from your past experience that showcase your hands-on approach and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role and keeping you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Supervisor in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Hands-On Experience: Make sure to highlight your practical experience in horticulture or agriculture. We want to see how you've taken ownership in previous roles, especially in supervisory positions. Share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage day-to-day operations.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic CV! We love it when applicants tailor their applications to the role. Use keywords from the job description, like 'teamwork', 'flexibility', and 'hands-on approach', to show us you understand what we're looking for.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role, and make sure your passion for the position shines through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Morepeople 01780
✨Know Your Horticulture
Make sure you brush up on your horticultural knowledge before the interview. Understand the seasonal variations in operations and be ready to discuss how you've managed teams in similar environments. This will show that you're not just a hands-on supervisor, but someone who truly understands the industry.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in high-pressure situations. Think about times when you had to manage agency labour or ensure quality standards were met. Sharing these experiences will highlight your ability to take ownership and lead effectively.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Flexibility
This role values teamwork and a 'get stuck in' attitude, so be ready to talk about how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Share specific instances where your flexibility helped the team adapt to changing demands, especially during peak seasons.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions that show your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their approach to continuous improvement or how they handle challenges during peak production times. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and genuine interest in contributing to their success.