Harvest Manager

Overview

On behalf of a prestigious client, Temp All Staffing is seeking a disciplined and strategic Harvest & Labour Manager to join their Colchester-based team. In this vital role, you will be the driving force behind the harvest’s success—balancing production volume and precise timing with cost-effective labour management to maximise profitability. You will ensure every yield meets the highest quality standards, maintaining the reputation our client is known for. Beyond the logistics, you are a leader. You will manage, inspire, and oversee a large seasonal workforce, ensuring all operations remain efficient, safe, and fully compliant with UK legislation..

Job Role

1. Volume & Timing (Sales)

• Harvest Planning: Create and implement picking plans synchronised with spray programs and harvest intervals.
• Yield Management: Ensure accurate yield estimations are recorded and communicated to the wider management team.
• Workforce Oversight: Manage the seasonal workforce to meet all deadlines and maintain field hygiene to maximise Class 1 yields.
• Logistics: Coordinate daily worker rotas, transport, and site logistics.
• Administration: Monitor and record worker performance, attendance, sickness, and training.

2. Costs & Profitability

• Performance Tracking: Manage daily and weekly worker performance against targets and budgets.
• Operational Efficiency: Implement lean working practices to eliminate production loss and reduce waste.
• Financial Reporting: Report regularly to the Senior Farm Business Manager on labour costs vs. budget.

3. Quality & Customer Satisfaction

• Supermarket Standards: Educate and support supervisors to ensure all fruit meets strict supermarket specifications.
• Cold Chain Integrity: Monitor carting and cold chain operations to protect fruit quality post-harvest.
• Training: Deliver worker and supervisor training in line with company procedures and values.
• Internal Communication: Liaise with the Growing and Production departments to resolve any quality issues in the field or packhouse.

4. Team Leadership

• Supervision: Provide supervisors with the necessary tools (timesheets, radios, PPE) and instructions to succeed.
• Reviews: Conduct regular site meetings and seasonal performance reviews for the supervisor team.
• Motivation: Support and motivate the workforce to achieve goals in a fair and positive work environment.

5. Legislation & Compliance

• • Labour Laws: Manage hours in accordance with Working Time Regulations
  • Health & Safety: Follow all H&S policies, risk assessments, and hygiene rules; report any breaches immediately.
  • GDPR: Act as a data processor, ensuring all personal worker data is handled in strict accordance with Data Protection legislation.

Your Experience/ Requirements

• Previous experience as a Harvest and Labour Manager
• Must drive due to location