At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead teams in a hands-on role, managing daily operations in horticulture.
- Company: Established horticultural business in Kent with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, overtime pay, 23 days holiday, and optional on-site accommodation.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Enjoy variety in your work and take ownership in a growing business.
- Qualifications: Experience in supervisory roles within horticulture or agriculture is preferred.
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
- 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.
For more information or a confidential discussion, please get in touch, click below to apply or reach out to me directly.
Operations Supervisor employer: MorePeople
Join a well-established horticultural business in Kent that prioritises teamwork and flexibility, offering a supportive environment where you can take real ownership of your role as an Operations Supervisor. With competitive salaries, overtime pay, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for personal growth within a close-knit team, this is an excellent employer for those seeking a rewarding career in a dynamic and varied setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Supervisor
✨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. Use real-life examples from your experience to demonstrate your hands-on approach and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our close-knit team in Kent.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Supervisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Hands-On Experience:Make sure to highlight your practical experience in supervisory roles, especially in horticulture or agriculture. We want to see how you've taken ownership of teams and operations, so share specific examples that demonstrate your hands-on approach.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor your application to reflect the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their experience with what we’re looking for.
Emphasise Teamwork and Flexibility:Since we value teamwork and a 'get stuck in' attitude, make sure to mention any experiences where you’ve worked collaboratively or adapted to changing demands. Show us how you can fit into our close-knit team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at MorePeople
✨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 supervisor, but someone who truly understands the industry.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in high-pressure situations. Be ready to talk about your hands-on approach and how you motivate seasonal or agency staff. This is key for demonstrating that you can take ownership of the team and operations.
✨Emphasise Safety and Quality
Since health and safety standards are crucial in this role, come prepared with examples of how you've maintained these standards in previous positions. Discuss any specific processes you've implemented to ensure quality and safety, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's operations and future growth. Inquire about their approach to continuous improvement and how they support their teams. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
