POSTHARVEST MANAGER

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Postharvest Manager, you will report to the Farm Manager and be responsible for managing all postharvest processes, including harvesting, grading, vase life testing, packing, cool chain management, and dispatch. You will work closely with the Farm Manager, Senior Postharvest/Technical Manager, and Production Cluster Captain to ensure quality control protocols are strictly followed, guaranteeing our flowers meet customer specifications.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Postharvest Management
  Oversee postharvest processes, including forecasting, harvesting, grading, packing, storage, and transportation.
  Ensure logistics, quality control, and supply chain processes are optimised for efficiency and effectiveness.
  Align operations with the company’s strategic objectives.
• Team Empowerment
  Work with the HR Manager and Farm Manager to build a strong, motivated, and flexible team.
  Foster a culture of trust and collaboration within the farm management team and wider organisation.
  Implement precise manpower planning, including labour forecasting and regulation.
  Define and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive departmental performance.
• Quality Assurance
  Develop and implement stringent quality control protocols.
  Conduct pest and disease inspections, audits, and corrective actions.
  Ensure compliance with international quality and safety standards.
• Budgeting & Planning
  Plan, prepare, and manage the postharvest budget.
  Implement weekly forecasts based on actual production and grade splits.
  Use forecasting techniques to anticipate harvesting volumes and market demand fluctuations.
• Compliance & Sustainability
  Adhere to **Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).
  Ensure compliance with certification bodies such as KFC and KEPHIS.
  Implement environmentally responsible postharvest waste disposal practices.
• Dispatch & Cool Chain Management
  Coordinate dispatch operations while maintaining cold chain integrity.
  Monitor and control temperature conditions to preserve flower quality.
  Train and supervise staff on best practices for postharvest handling.
• Equipment & Facility Maintenance
  Ensure postharvest equipment and facilities are well-maintained and operational.
  Oversee both autonomous and planned maintenance schedules.
• Stakeholder Collaboration
  Work with internal production teams to align postharvest activities.
  Identify and resolve quality-related issues in collaboration with external partners, including customers.
• Continuous Improvement
  Drive efficiency and process improvements across all postharvest operations.
  Identify and implement innovations while eliminating inefficiencies.
• Data Management
  Oversee postharvest data, including yield, quality metrics, labour efficiency, and cost performance.
  Work with the Production Manager to synchronise postharvest activities with production planning.
  Compile and analyse monthly rejection reports.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• Academic & Professional Qualifications: 
  Diploma in Agriculture/Horticulture or a related field (required).
  Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture/Horticulture or a business-related field (preferred).
  IPM Level 1 certification (required), IPM Level 2 (advantageous).
  BASIS & FACTS certification (advantageous).
• Experience: 
  Minimum three years of experience in crop production or postharvest management.
  Experience in growing summer flowers (advantageous).
• Key Competencies:
  Strong planning, organisational, and coordination skills.
  Effective communication and decision-making abilities.
  Problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
  Excellent time management and attention to detail.
  Ability to collaborate and work in a fast-paced environment.
  Emotional intelligence and flexibility.
  Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data management tools.
• Essential Attributes:
  A team player with the ability to work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

INTERESTED?
 

If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge, apply now by sending your CV and cover letter to recruitment@marginpar.biz

WANT TO KNOW MORE?
 

For more details, contact Jane Kimani, GRP Postharvest/Technical Manager, at jane.kimani@marginpar.biz.