Vice President of Farming Operations - Produce Careers

A leading fresh produce organization has an outstanding opportunity for a Vice President of Farming Operations to join their executive team. This role will lead all areas of production, mentor a strong team, and contribute to the company’s ongoing success.

This well-known organization grows, harvests, cools, processes and ships millions of cartons of fresh vegetables to retailers, wholesalers and food service customers throughout the country. They embody and incorporate a true seed-to-sales approach. Their control of the entire process ensures consistent, high-quality produce year-round. They have fostered strong relationships with customers and vendors over the past 90 years. They are a family oriented company that focuses on achieving excellence through our company values.

The Vice President of Farming Operations is a key member of the executive leadership team. This position will be responsible for production and harvesting for thousands of vegetable and berry crop acres.

This position will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and will work closely with the members of the Senior Leadership Team. This position manages Production Directors, Harvesting Directors, the Shop and a fully equipped Lab.

Position based on the Central Coast of California and will travel throughout California and into Yuma for the Winter season. Relocation assistance can be available for the right candidate.

Responsibilities & Duties:

The Vice President of Farming Operations will be responsible for structuring and managing multi-site farm operations and developing production and harvesting teams to establish and reach company objectives

Primary responsibilities include:

• Oversee farm budgeting, forecasting and execute production, harvesting and the respective financial objectives
• Establish, and participate in, the development for all personnel
• Meet with senior management group periodically to help create and enhance company teamwork and objectives
• Work closely with Accounting and Finance to review financial performance of the farm operations programs to maximize revenue and improve gross profit margins
• Lead, coach and guide all direct reports
• Ensure company policies and procedures are followed by each farm and department (Operations, Safety, HR, etc.)
• Attract, retain and motivate farm operations staff
• Report and share information with management and corporate executives to ensure they are kept fully informed of regional activities
  

Additional responsibilities include, but are not limited to, providing managerial oversight on key farm operations, especially:

• Work with scheduling Director to ensure most efficient and effective ground usage
• Oversee lab operations and testing
• Develop and execute pest control plans and strategies
• Work with ranch managers to advise and help with scheduling and crop management adjustments
• Oversee and regulate seed and chemical handling and inventory management
• Assure proper and efficient Chemical applications
  

Requirements:

• •A Bachelor’s degree in Ag Business, Agronomy or related agricultural or science based field of study with Master’s degree or MBA highly preferred
• 5+ years’ senior management experience overseeing agricultural programs over a large geographic region with multiple crop sites
• Self-directed individual who can take the lead on issues to identify and implement solutions with team input
• Demonstrated strategic management of irrigated crops
• Demonstrated financial management experience and budgeting skills
• Adaptability to changing situations and have the ability to perform multiple tasks with multiple priorities
• Ability to foster accountability, communication, and excellence in employees
• Ability to work under pressure and work with all levels of employees
• Proficient in the use of Windows based computer programs (Excel, PowerPoint) and a strong aptitude with Software and ERP systems
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to train and work with operational personnel on the farms
• Superior organizational and project management skills and experience leading, developing and managing people
• Ability to acquire and hold a California valid driver’s license and successfully pass vehicle insurance verification
• Candidates must be eligible to work unrestricted in the U.S. without company sponsorship to be considered for this position
• Ability to comprehend, read, write and communicate proficiently in English and Spanish and interact with all levels of the organization
  

The actual salary for this role will be determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s skills and experience. Please note that base pay is one important aspect of the total compensation package. The salary range is expected to be in the $200K - $275K range, but can differ for candidates who are an exceptional fit for the position. The base pay range indicated here does not include any additional incentive programs that may be eligible for the position.

For more information, contact D.J. Stornetta, djs@producecareers.com