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Roots to Work is a project of Sustain: the alliance for better food and farming.

Farm & Fresh Produce Operations Manager

Higher Farm
Somerset

Posted: 9 Dec 2024

Deadline: 19 Jan 2025

Compensation: £45,000-£50,000

Living Wage employer Ethnicity Confident scheme Disability Confident scheme

Paid Full-time Permanent Fixed term / contract

Job description

Farm and Fresh Produce Operations Manager

Location: Higher Farm, Somerset, BA46QF

Employment Type: Full-Time

We are a natural food and farming business based on our 50 acre farm in Somerset. We are seeking an Operations Manager to oversee and grow our thriving farm and its key revenue streams.We are committed to producing high-quality, natural food while fostering a deep connection to the land and community. Our revenue streams include:

• A successful veg box delivery scheme.
• Weekly appearances at local farmers’ markets.
• An onsite restaurant and production kitchen showcasing our farm-to-table philosophy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the farm, ensuring seamless coordination across all activities.
• You will work with our two land managers/growers Basil & Rebecca, who have deep knowledge of our natural farming methods and strategies, and look after our biodiverse agroforestry systems and natural gardens
• You time will be split roughly 40/60 from farm work and management work
• Manage and grow our veg box and ecommerce, constantly improving customer satisfaction
• Managing and grow our farmers markets
• Managing the relationship with our restaurant head chef and production chef to develop our strong farm-to-table ethos
• Work closely with the farm team to optimise production, ensuring quality and sustainability.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase customer engagement and sales.
• Manage budgets, track performance metrics, and prepare regular reports for stakeholders.
• Lead and inspire the farm team, ensuring a positive and productive work environment.
• Collaborate with the marketing team to promote Higher Farm’s brand and offerings.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

About You:

• Proven experience in farm management, operations, or a related field.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills.
• Experience in and a strong understanding of various natural farming methods
• Business acumen with a track record of managing budgets and growing revenue streams.
• Experience in managing farmers markets, veg boxes and working with restaurants
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a hands-on role and adapt to seasonal changes.

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Free parking
• On-site gym
• On-site parking
• Store discount

Experience:

• Fresh produce sales and distribution & Veg Box Scheme 
• Multiple Farmers Markets management 
• People Management
• Farm Management

Work Location: In person

Application information

Email matteo@higher-farm.co.uk

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