Agronomist

At G’s, our philosophy is to be recognised as outstanding, market-led growers and suppliers of sustainable, healthy fresh produce, and to be at the forefront of the industry in everything we do. G’s is an incredibly exciting place to work. Being at the leading edge of modern food production means it is fast paced, stimulating, and rewarding. We work with the biggest food retail brands in the UK and Europe and want people who will do what’s right for G’s and our customers. We can only achieve this through the dedication of our people, underpinned by our values; Trust, Efficiency, Quality, Expertise, Can-do

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a key role within the Sandfields Management Team based in Warks/Worcs..

Due to planned retirement, a unique opportunity has arisen to be involved at all levels in a diverse field vegetable crop production business, supplying high quality products to the major UK retailers.

The primary role encompasses the agronomy of all UK crops from seed to harvest, working closely with the Crop management team. There will be additional involvement with overseas production supporting their agronomy teams.

Against a background of increasing production challenges, greater demands from customers (e.g. environment, biodiversity) and the drive for sustainability there is a need to develop and introduce new crop production methods.

Responsibilities

• Field walking/crop protection recommendations on all crops (Salad onions, Legumes, Asparagus and Pumpkins) utilising IPM/ICM principles with the aim of reducing conventional pesticide use.
• Ordering chemicals and co-ordination of Sprayer operators.
• Maintaining detailed records using Farm management software.
• Work with the Crop management team to produce base fertiliser recommendations for all crops. Plan and implement soil testing through SOYL and Omnia.
• Update Food experts PPPLs and proposed pesticide lists.
• Responsibility for coordinating Farm Audits including LEAF, Red Tractor etc.
• Advise management team on changes to product approvals and legislation.
• Review other produce suppliers pesticide lists, check for product suitability in relation to residue risk and compliance.
• Review customer pesticide requirements against proposed lists.
• Represent the business on various Crop Association technical committees and liaison with other bodies e.g. Horticultural Crop Protection (HCP).
• Conduct trials to identify new active ingredients and non chemical methods of controlling weeds pests and diseases.
• Support Farm management team with Biodiversity and regenerative farming targets.
• Drive / support innovation within the business.

Skills and Knowledge

• BASIS and FACTS qualifications.
• Experience of field vegetable production preferable
• IT literate and familiar with systems e.g. Gate Keeper / Muddy Boots etc
• Ability to work as part of a Team, providing an internal service. 

Hours of work: Flexible- usually Mon to Fri, however flexibility is essential due to the nature of the business and the role.

Location of work: Warwickshire/Worcestershire

The package on offer includes a salary commensurate with experience, company pension scheme, vehicle or car allowance and other benefits.

To apply please forward letters of application and CVs to Kathryn.britton@gs-fresh.com

Closing date: 7th February