Research Farm Manager

About the Opportunity

The Research and Development Test Plot Farm Manager is responsible for installing, executing, and overseeing all aspects of Driscoll's experimental farming and research trials, in coordination with cross‑functional teams. The role includes the accurate collection and distribution of high‑quality data, as well as the organization of open days for local growers. Through optimized farming practices, the R&D Test Plot Manager ensures the production of crops with the highest standards of flavor and yield, facilitating the full expression of new genetic material.

This position brings value to the enterprise through strong expertise in crop management, the application of innovative growing practices, and support for the development and deployment of proprietary genetics. In addition, the role is responsible for ensuring that Research Farm teams maintain strong succession plans for key management and operational positions.

• To maximize the potential of our proprietary genetics, demonstrating meaningful production systems and engaging with independent growers creating Enterprise value.
• The main objective of the position is to grow the best crop possible to ensure expressing the full potential of new genetic material.
• Gain knowledge in growing the crop to bring value to the entire district and enterprise with expertise in new genetic material or growing applications.

• Oversee the agronomy of all crops in the substrate production system, working with the existing research farm teams to grow the crops using the best commercial practices.
• Support the evaluation and new practice deployment across Driscoll's growers in collaboration with Agronomy.
• Lead and empower the team, improve the overall technical knowledge of the research farm staff and strengthen the knowledge base of the research farm teams; mentor and onboard new research farm staff and foster development and collaboration.
• Ensure all plant material is labelled, inventoried and all appropriate treatments are applied; maintain records of all treatments applied.
• Deploy the necessary cultural operations for Applied Research (AR) trials and observations with data collection.
• Develop and implement sustainable research farm systems to deliver high‑quality data for both plant breeding and AR trials so they can accurately guide commercial decisions.
• Ensure the research farm operates within the approved budgetary targets by managing and monitoring expenditures accordingly.
• Develop, design and implement high‑quality processes and improvements in research farms and lead the development of new technologies in the breeding research farms.
• Review and approve all administrative paperwork for the farm crews regarding payroll, training, evaluations, promotions and terminations.
• Design and implement systems to efficiently manage labor and equipment.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the research farms and ensure implementation of plans in alignment with plant breeders and applied research.
• Accountable for equipment maintenance and worker safety.
• Oversee pest and disease scouting and management; ensure weed management with a clean and organized area.
• Review and approve all administrative paperwork for the farm.
• Follow company policies and practices while representing Driscoll's in an ethical and business‑like manner in all interactions with employees, governmental agencies, growers, customers, etc.
• Ensure the security of Driscoll's confidential and proprietary information and materials.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Exhibit Driscoll's values of passion, humility, and trustworthiness in all interactions.
• Work well in a team environment by supporting fairness, a strong work ethic, accountability to the team and leading by example; utilize team building and communication skills to create strong department and company alignment.
• Follow company policies and practices while representing Driscoll's in an ethical and business‑like manner in all interactions with employees, government agencies, growers.
• Ensure the safekeeping of Driscoll's confidential and proprietary information and materials.
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