Farm manager (intensive berry production)

Company Overview Plantopia Farms Pvt Ltd is a leading agricultural firm with specialized, high-tech production facilities in Kotagiri, The Nilgiris. We are dedicated to the intensive, substrate-based cultivation of premium soft fruits. We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Farm Manager to oversee all aspects of our sophisticated berry operations and drive continuous improvement and profitability.

The Role : Farm Manager This is a senior, full-time, on-site leadership position based at our production facility in Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu. The Farm Manager will hold full operational authority for the farm, ensuring the high-volume, high-quality production of our core berry crops : blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. This role combines technical expertise with critical managerial responsibilities to achieve world-class operational efficiency and yield targets.

Key Responsibilities :

1. Operations & Technical Management Production Planning : Develop and execute comprehensive annual and seasonal production plans, scheduling planting, harvesting, and crop rotation to maximize yield and efficiency.

Substrate & Fertigation Management : Oversee and optimize all aspects of substrate hydroponic systems , including rigorous management of nutrient solutions, irrigation scheduling, and water quality to maintain peak plant health and fruiting.

Environmental Control : Directly manage the climate control, protective structures, and energy usage within the facility to ensure optimal growing conditions in the Kotagiri environment.

2. People & Resource Management Team Leadership : Recruit, train, mentor, and manage a diverse team of supervisors, technical staff, and farm laborers, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and excellence.

SOP Development : Create, document, and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all critical farm activities, including harvesting, packing, crop maintenance, and sanitation.

Budgeting & Inventory : Manage the operational budget, control costs, and oversee inventory for consumables, fertilizers, substrates, and plant stock.

3. Quality, Health, & Innovation Integrated Pest Management (IPM) : Implement and lead a robust Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM) program, focusing on proactive scouting, biological controls, and judicious chemical use to ensure zero residue and maximum fruit quality.

Quality Assurance : Establish and monitor stringent post-harvest quality management procedures to ensure berries meet premium market specifications for taste, firmness, size, and shelf life.

Efficiency & Innovation : Drive farm efficiency through the evaluation and implementation of new technologies, automation, and horticultural techniques to reduce labor input and increase yield and sustainability.

Qualifications Required :

Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in high-value horticultural production, with at least two (2) years in a farm management or senior supervisory role.

Demonstrated expertise in the intensive commercial production of berries (blueberries, raspberries, and / or strawberries), especially within controlled environments or substrate systems.

Expert-level knowledge of substrate hydroponic growing principles , including complex nutrient management and water chemistry.

Proven ability to lead, manage, and motivate large farm teams effectively.

Strong organizational skills, with experience in developing and implementing SOPs, budgets, and quality control systems.

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering , or a closely related field.

Highly Desired :

Experience managing production systems requiring climate control or protective structures.

Familiarity with the challenges and opportunities of farming in the Nilgiris region or similar subtropical / high-altitude areas.

Certification or specialized training in IPM or sustainable agriculture practices.