Nursery Production Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced and driven Nursery Production Manager to ensure the efficient and effective execution of nursery operations. This role is responsible for staff planning, monitoring productivity, and ensuring tasks are completed to specification within set timelines. The successful candidate will work closely with the Nursery Manager, Greenhouse Manager, and Operations Manager to align staff resources with operational goals.

• Oversee and manage a workforce of approximately 200-250 staff members.
• Plan and allocate staff for daily and weekly tasks based on schedules provided by Nursery Managers.
• Ensure sufficient staffing levels through recruitment and resource planning.
• Track and manage staff productivity, implementing systems to monitor individual and team performance.

• Develop and implement a central planning document where managers can log tasks 1-2 weeks in advance to forecast labour needs.
• Ensure all tasks are completed on time and according to quality specifications.

• Enforce workplace health and safety standards through regular checks and training initiatives.
• Manage disciplinary processes and resolve staff disputes in collaboration with HR.
• Promote employee well-being and maintain a positive, productive work environment.

• Develop and implement strategies to optimise operational efficiency.
• Set benchmarks for task completion and introduce incentives for high performance.
• Continuously review processes to identify and implement improvements.

• Maintain clear and open communication with managers and technicians.
• Provide regular updates on task progress, staffing challenges, and productivity outcomes.

• Design and implement training programmes for supervisors and production staff, covering work standards, quality, health & safety, and SOP adherence.
• Monitor competency levels and provide retraining where required.

• Mentor, coach, and develop production supervisors to strengthen leadership, discipline, and communication skills.

• Minimum 3 years' experience in a production, operations, or nursery management role, preferably within agriculture, horticulture, nursery, or greenhouse operations.
• Proven experience managing large teams in a high-volume operational environment.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate, mentor, and develop supervisors and staff.
• Experience in workforce planning, productivity management, and operational scheduling.
• Sound understanding of health & safety regulations and disciplinary procedures.
• Ability to implement systems and processes to improve operational efficiency and productivity.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across multiple departments.
• Experience developing and implementing staff training programmes and SOP adherence initiatives.
• Highly organised with strong administrative and reporting capabilities.
• Computer literate, with proficiency in Microsoft Office and operational planning tools.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Relevant qualification in Agriculture, Horticulture, Operations Management, Production Management, or a related field would be advantageous.