Plant Material Lead

Who are we? Zespri is more than simply the world's single-largest marketer of kiwifruit. We like to think of ourselves as fruit on a mission and as rebels with a cause: to help people, communities and the environment around the world thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit. We are proudly the world's largest marketer of kiwifruit, selling kiwifruit in more than 50 countries. We work with around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies to source the best-quality Zespri Kiwifruit which we supply through our distribution partners to wholesale and retail customers. We are one of New Zealand's best-known international brands, dedicated to creating sustainable long-term value for growers. What's the role? The Plant Material Lead, reporting to the Grower Services Manager in Bologna, is responsible for ensuring the availability of high-quality plant material to support Zespri's expansion in Europe. This includes developing strategies for rapid orchard development, maintaining relationships with nurseries and phytosanitary services, and improving the quality of plant material across Europe. Key Responsibilities include: Ensuring Zespri partners in Europe receive high-quality plant material on time and in sufficient quantities to meet expansion and productivity targets for Sungold and pre-commercial varieties. Developing and implementing strategies, staying updated on regulatory changes, ensuring traceability and compliance, maintaining legal documentation, and monitoring costs. Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, developing nursery partnerships in Greece, and managing outsourcing operations for plant material collection, packing, storage, transport, and distribution. Partnering with the License Specialist to provide regular updates on the expansion phase. Who are you? Our ideal candidate for this position is a true team player who has over five years of experience in Agribusiness with a strong background in plant material management and nursery operations. You will also have: The ability to manage cross-functional projects, stay abreast of industry trends, and build trust with stakeholders. Expertise when it comes to negotiating contracts, developing strategic plans, and utilizing computer applications. Written and verbal fluency communication skills in Italian and English at a conversational, business and technical level. Computer literacy in applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and traceability systems. A Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Business or Master's Degree. The ability to travel nationally and internationally as required, with at least one trip per month. Why Zespri? Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 850 employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of being personally connected, results-driven, and committed to guardianship. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation. Competitive overall remuneration package, including a Short-Term Incentive. FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH & the office. Additional paid annual leave day per year (Zespri Day). Additional paid volunteer day to volunteer within your community (Volunteer Time). Global Life and Permanent Disability Insurance. Group Medical Insurance benefits. Apply Now Applications close 28 February 2025. At Zespri, we understand the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, and a fair hiring process is the first step to getting there. We want to attract a diverse range of people and encourage everyone from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment and selection process by reaching out to our Talent Acquisition team via email at careerszespri.com . J-18808-Ljbffr

Location: bologna, IT

Posted Date: 2/4/2025