Operations Manager - Harakeke Berries
Harakeke Strawberries is a rapidly growing horticultural business dedicated to producing high-quality strawberries through sustainable and innovative growing practices. A part of the Ngā Wairiki – Ngāti Apa Developments Group, this role is a part of a small but high-performing team of managers.
We are seeking an Operations Manager who has energy for a fast-paced environment and brings strong and positive leadership, planning, and execution skills.
This is a critical, hands-on leadership role responsible for driving the operational success of a scaling horticultural development.
About the Role
As the Operations Manager, you will take ownership of all daily field operations and be accountable for the performance of the operation across planning, resource coordination, team leadership, and execution. You will work closely with the Head Grower to plan and implement seasonal and weekly work programs, ensuring the smooth, efficient, and timely delivery of crop production milestones.
This role requires someone with solid horticultural knowledge and the leadership to maximise the potential of people, equipment, and processes. You will be responsible for the practical delivery of planting, irrigation, pest and disease control, harvest operations, and compliance, with a constant focus on efficiency, cost control, workflow optimisation, and quality output.
This is a key operational leadership role — ideal for someone who knows how to manage a horticultural site, lead a team through seasonal pressures, and make informed, real-time decisions to support productivity and sustainability.
Responsibilities Include:
- Lead the planning and execution of all daily field activities in alignment with crop cycles and production targets.
- Work directly with the Head Grower to develop and manage weekly and seasonal operational plans.
- Drive performance across field operations — ensuring efficiency, quality, and timeliness.
- Supervise and coordinate teams during planting, irrigation, fertigation, pest/disease control, harvesting, and dispatch.
- Ensure operational compliance with NZGAP and other certification requirements.
- Maintain strict health and safety standards, promoting a culture of safety and accountability.
- Manage farm equipment and scheduling to maximise uptime and reduce operational risk.
- Monitor operational costs and implement improvements to stay within budget while optimising outcomes.
- Communicate effectively with suppliers, contractors, and buyers to support efficient supply and sales processes.
- Utilise data and reporting to monitor progress, enhance planning, and make informed operational decisions.
What We’re Looking For
- Minimum 5 years’ hands-on experience in horticulture or process-centric fields.
- A proven track record managing teams and operations with precision and efficiency.
- Practical experience in managing budgets, labour planning, and resource allocation.
- Solid knowledge of certification and compliance requirements in a fresh produce setting.
- Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Tech-savvy — confident using operational software, spreadsheets, and reporting tools.
- A drive to help a growing business succeed, improving budget and expenses through efficiencies.
Why Join Harakeke Strawberries?
- Be part of a business that’s expanding and evolving — and play a lead role in shaping that growth.
- Work in a values-driven, community-focused organisation that supports its people and environment.
- Competitive salary and opportunity for future growth and development.
- A hands-on, respected leadership role where your skills will have a daily impact.
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
