Orchard Manager - Riwaka Orchards

Lead a flagship, large-scale apple orchard development in the Tasman region. Riwaka Based – near Motueka, Tasman FarmRight Ltd operates as Portfolio Investment Manager for the New Zealand Superannuation Fund and oversees more than 18,400 hectares of farm and orchard land across the country. At FarmRight we take a sustainable, long-term view, we invest in the success of our people and in opportunities which provide a win-win outcome for all involved. In 2017 FarmRight widened its scope into viticulture and horticulture management and today continues to analyse and acquire commercial rural properties, providing a need for ongoing operational and management capability. Located within the Tasman region, our Riwaka orchard is a short 7mins drive from Motueka. We manage 125 ha of Envy apples growing on modern structures and utilising innovative technology and modern systems to enhance productivity and sustainability across the orchard. The Opportunity We’ll seeking an exceptional Orchard Manager to lead Riwaka, a large-scale, high-spec orchard operation on advanced V-Trellis systems. Reporting to the Tasman Operations Manager, you will take full ownership of operational performance—leading a substantial workforce, embedding best-practice systems, and delivering outstanding production, quality, and financial outcomes. This is a career-defining leadership role, offering the scale, backing and autonomy to shape a nationally significant horticulture asset. You’ll Lead A five-person Operational Leadership Team across core orchard functions An established permanent workforce of approximately 17 workers, plus seasonal workforce scaling to 500+ at peak harvest Leadership of a largely established orchard with development substantially complete and young trees transitioning into commercial production. Leadership & People Accountabilities Build and lead a high-performing, engaged orchard workforce Oversee workforce planning, recruitment, training and performance Champion a strong health & safety culture Production & Performance Accountabilities Deliver annual operational plans aligned to orchard strategy Execute orchard programmes with precision (spraying, pruning, thinning, irrigation) Lead harvest delivery to meet quality and market requirements Drive productivity, efficiency and cost control Systems, Quality & Compliance Accountabilities Implement best-practice pest, disease and quality programmes Maintain compliance across GlobalG.A.P., ethical and company standards Oversee asset, equipment and operational systems About You You are a proven orchard, horticulture or large-scale agriculture leader, confident operating at scale and leading diverse teams in fast-moving environments. You will bring: Demonstrated success leading large, diverse workforces Strong operational and production delivery capability Commercial acumen and financial oversight experience A commitment to continuous improvement and high standards Experience in pipfruit, intensive horticulture or large-scale agricultural production Why FarmRight Lead a flagship, large-scale orchard Join a well-capitalised, long-term investment platform Operate within a values-led, high-performance environment Be part of a national team shaping the future of NZ horticulture We will offer a highly competitive salary, vehicle for your work and reasonable private use, plus relocation assistance (if required). Join us and be part of a dynamic team committed to producing the finest apples and maintaining a sustainable, enjoyable working environment! #J-18808-Ljbffr