The Head Grower is a senior leadership position within the company whose primary role is to manage all aspects of crop production to achieve best in class yields and quality. This role will oversee and mentor the Assistant Grower, IPM Specialist and Young Plant Specialist. The Head Grower works closely with their counterpart in the operations team – the Plant Manager – at their specific location to run the entire facility.
Leadership & Management
Manage the growing team on a day-to-day basis, including both technical guidance in growing topics, as well as mentorship and coaching
Create and sustain a culture of excellence, inclusion, and continuous learning
Continuously foster emergent talent and build the bench of growing talent
Yield & Quality
Oversee yield & quality for all crops to achieve company targets
Use data-driven approach to manage all areas of crop production
Climate Management & Irrigation Schedules
Oversee climate strategy for all plants and compartments
Determine optimal settings for all greenhouse equipment and irrigation
Evaluate climate strategy impact on energy use and yield
Greenhouse Management
Oversee and determine all cultural practices for young plant production
Oversee IPM Program – compliance, record keeping and IPM strategy
Monitor functioning of greenhouse, production and irrigation equipment regularly with Maintenance Supervisor
Oversee plant nutrition program
Review crop schedules and adjust as needed for sales, operations or plant needs
Provide training to operations team as needed on crop-specific tasks
WHO YOU ARE
Academic Qualifications:
Advanced Degree in Plant Science, Horticulture or related field
Professional Experience:
3+ years of relevant work experience in a management position in commercial greenhouse production, preferably in leafy greens and herbs
Understanding of all aspects of crop production and growing in CEA
Strong computer skills with experience with climate control software platforms
Extremely well organized
Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills
Data-driven with strong problem-solving and analytical skills