Tech Services Manager Horticulture

Nurture. Grow. Thrive.

Accepting a role with Elders means you will be joining a team ready to support and grow your career. Be part of a culture that has been in the making for more than 185 years, a culture so strong it is almost tangible. Much like the farmers and communities we work with, you will experience passion, dedication, and resilience across all parts of the business. With such an iconic, essential business in the Australian landscape we are confident that you too will be proud to grow your career at Elders and wear the pink shirt.

About the Role

As the State Technical Services Manager – Horticulture, you will play a key leadership role in driving horticultural agronomy strategy across the Victoria/Riverina network. You will mentor, train, and support a team of horticulture agronomists to enhance their technical and extension capabilities. A critical aspect of this role includes conducting applied research and delivering extension activities that align with business goals. You will also act as a subject matter expert to ensure that agronomists are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to meet sales, project, and earnings targets. Working closely with internal teams and stakeholders, your efforts will directly contribute to the growth and success of our horticulture division.

Responsibilities

• Lead the horticulture agronomy strategy for the Victoria/Riverina region and support the horticulture agronomists network through mentoring and training.
• Conduct applied research and extension activities to meet project goals, including trial planning and design.
• Work with the State Rural Products Manager and Area Managers to align horticulture agronomy goals with sales and earnings targets.
• Deliver agronomy training programs and professional development sessions for the agronomy team to enhance their expertise and skills.
• Collaborate with TESA (Thomas Elder Sustainable Agriculture) to coordinate research, extension events, and ensure the timely execution of project milestones.
• Foster a collaborative and effective working environment by actively participating in team efforts and ensuring solutions are resourced and cost-effective for the business.

About You

• A minimum of 7 years of experience in agronomy or applied research/extension roles, with expert knowledge of horticulture agronomy.
• Strong understanding of Victorian and Riverina grower networks, client communication, and practical sales experience.
• Proven ability to mentor and coach employees at various stages of their career, fostering a continuous learning culture.
• Solid experience in agricultural extension, including trial planning and research, with excellent presentation and communication skills.
• Strong project management acumen, with the ability to coordinate and oversee multiple tasks while meeting deadlines.
• Ability to identify new agronomic sales opportunities and contribute to the recruitment strategy for horticulture agronomists.

About Elders

As a trusted Australian agribusiness, we have played an important role in the agricultural sector for 185 years. Our expansive network across Australia offers links to markets, tailored advice and specialist knowledge across a range of products and services, including farm supplies, agronomy, livestock, wool, grain, finance, insurance, and real estate.

We are committed to a sustainable and prosperous future for rural and regional communities, and creating value for all stakeholders in the agricultural supply chain, across both Australian and international markets.

Elders is for Australian agriculture.

If you are ready to grow your career with Elders, please click on 'Apply' today.

For a confidential discussion, please call John Young on 0408 500 886 or email john.young@elders.com.au. Please note, applications may be shortlisted as they are received. At Elders, we strive to create a safe environment where everyone can thrive. We aspire to do this by recognizing talent, promoting inclusion, and celebrating diversity. No matter how you identify, we encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply for roles at Elders. We will accept applications from all people with the right to live and work in Australia.