Research Farm Manager

About The Opportunity

The Research and Development Test Plot 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 accurate collection and distribution of high‑quality data, as well as 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.

The position brings value through expertise in crop management, application of innovative growing practices, and support for development and deployment of proprietary genetics. The role also ensures that Research Farm teams maintain strong succession plans for key positions.

UK – Maidstone

Research & Development

Full time

R0008880

5–10 Years of Experience

Regular

• To maximize the potential of our proprietary genetics, demonstrating meaningful production systems and engaging with independent growers to create 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 substrate production system, working with the existing research farm teams to grow the crops using best commercial practices.
• Support the evaluation and new practice deployment across Driscoll’s growers in collaboration with Agronomy.
• Lead and empower the team and improve overall technical knowledge of the research farm staff; mentor and onboard new staff and foster development and collaboration.
• Ensure all plant material is labelled, inventoried, and all appropriate treatments are applied; maintain records of all treatments.
• Deploy the necessary cultural operations for Applied Research 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 approved budgetary targets by managing and monitoring expenditures.
• Develop, design, and implement high‑quality processes and improvements in research farms and lead the development of new technologies in 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.
• 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.
• Ad hoc work outside of the parameters as the business need requires.

The ideal candidate will have the…