Senior Technical Manager: Fruit Supply

About the role

A leading agricultural business in the fresh produce sector is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Senior Technical Manager to lead its fruit supply function. The role involves strengthening grower partnerships, driving supply strategy and ensuring alignment with market demands through technical expertise and stakeholder management.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and develop the Fruit Supply team.
• Build and maintain long‑term relationships with growers and production partners.
• Develop and implement fruit supply strategies, planting programmes and forecasting processes.
• Provide guidance on cultivar selection, crop performance, regional suitability and production optimisation.
• Deliver high‑level technical support on complex production and grower‑related matters.
• Analyse production, quality and commercial data to identify risks, opportunities and performance improvements.
• Collaborate with Operations, Postharvest, Procurement, Sales, Finance and Product Development to align supply capabilities with market requirements.

Required profile

• A tertiary qualification in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy or a related discipline.
• 5–10 years' experience in the South African fruit industry, including technical support to commercial growers.
• 3–5 years' leadership experience in a technical or grower‑facing environment.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance technical and business priorities.
• Excellent analytical, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel extensively.