Keitt Exporters Limited is a premier export company headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. We specialize in the export of premium fruits and vegetables across the world. Our commitment to quality and excellence has established us as a pivotal player in Kenya’s agricultural export sector.
Job Title: Farm Production Manager
Job Summary
The Farm Production Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of agricultural production on currently (4) four farms located in Embu, Subukia and Meru, ensuring the efficient and profitable cultivation of crops, with a specific focus on avocado farming. The role requires extensive experience in crop management, including crop nutrition, protection, and yield estimation. The Farm Production Manager will lead and supervise the farm workforce, manage the procurement of farm inputs, products, and machinery, and ensure compliance with international agricultural standards through successful handling of farm audits. The role also demands a deep understanding of crop physiology, particularly avocados, to optimize growth and production processes. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a strategic mindset, and a minimum of five years of experience in a similar role, with additional experience in other crops like mango being advantageous.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
We are seeking an experienced Farm Production Manager with a minimum of 5 years of proven expertise specifically in avocado farming. Experience with other crops, such as mango, will be an added advantage. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of farm production, including:
Developing and implementing effective crop nutrition and protection strategies to ensure optimal growth and yield.
Accurate estimation of crop yield and resource requirements, ensuring efficient and timely planning of farm activities.
Managing the procurement of farm products, inputs, and machinery, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality.
Leading and managing a farm workforce of over 200 employees, fostering a productive and safe working environment.
Direct and coordinate workers’ activities, such as planting, irrigation, chemical application, harvesting, grading, and record keeping
Deep knowledge of avocado physiology and growth patterns, ensuring best practices in cultivation and harvesting.
Extensive experience in handling farm audits, particularly in compliance with international standards such as SMETA.
Ensure compliance with government regulations and including health and safety standards.
Work to achieve all the set targets as crop per block.
Coordinate growing activities with those of the Packhouses and other departments.
Ensure proper choice and use of Chemicals, through soil analyses, as you work to achieve quality and quantity and safety of all raw materials (farm produce). Always consulting the approved Products list to be provided.
Ensure all records in the farm are kept to date including ALL traceability matters/issues.
Ensure there are proper measures in place to warrant security of all farm inputs, machinery and persons.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Science degree and/or Diploma in horticultural, agriculture or any other related field from a recognized institution.
Minimum 5 years of experience in avocado farming.
Proven expertise in managing farm operations, with additional experience in mango or other crops being an added advantage.
Strong understanding of crop nutrition, protection, and farm machinery.
Experience with farm audits and compliance with international standards.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience to [email protected] by Tuesday 21stAugust 2024.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. KEITT is an equal opportunity employer and canvassing will automatically lead to disqualification.
