About Us
At Southern Fresh, we don’t just grow produce – we grow high-performing systems, strong teams, and a business that’s setting the standard for what modern horticulture can look like.
We’re on a clear path to becoming a world-class growing operation, combining practical farming expertise with disciplined execution and continuous improvement. Our outdoor cropping operation is a critical part of that, and we’re investing in the leadership to take it to the next level.
About the Role
This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll take ownership of our outdoor cropping operations, ensuring plans are executed effectively and performance targets are consistently achieved —
particularly around crop yield, crop availability, and labour efficiency.
As Outdoor Cropping Manager, you’ll lead from the front, working closely with your team in the field while setting clear direction, building capability, and driving high standards across day-to-day operations. Success in this role comes from balancing practical execution with strong leadership to deliver consistent, reliable outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all outdoor cropping operations and field execution
- Deliver crop plans safely, efficiently, and on schedule
- Manage labour and machinery across outdoor operations
- Drive improvements in productivity, efficiency, and cost control
- Lead and develop a high-performing outdoor cropping team
- Maintain strong communication with Production, Agronomy, and leadership
- Ensure compliance, safety, and operational standards are consistently met
What We’re Looking For
- Experience managing outdoor cropping or farming operations
- Strong leadership capability with experience leading field-based teams
- Ability to execute plans and deliver consistent operational performance
- Experience managing labour and machinery in a commercial environment
- Solid understanding of cost control and operational efficiency
- Experience using farm management systems (Apunga or similar preferred)
- Agronomy experience or a strong understanding of crop production systems is highly regarded
- A practical, hands-on leader who drives accountability and results
Why Join Southern Fresh?
- Be part of a growing, forward-thinking horticulture business
- Take real ownership of a critical part of the operation
- Work alongside a strong leadership team and experienced Agronomist
- Opportunity to shape and build a high-performing outdoor operation
- Competitive salary based on experience
Please note: Only candidates with current New Zealand working rights will be considered for this role.
