Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Reports to: Farm Manager / Senior Management Team
Working Pattern: Full time. Seasonal peak June–October; additional hours as required
About Pollybell Farms
Pollybell Farms Ltd is a leading UK producer of high-quality organic and conventional cereals and vegetables, supplying major retailers and wholesalers and meeting the organic and environmental standards across 2,000 Ha. The farm is committed to sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and delivering high-quality produce.
Role Overview
The Crop Manager is responsible for planning, managing, and optimising all crop production activities across Pollybell Farms. This includes field operations, pest and disease monitoring, labour management, compliance with organic and retailer standards, and ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality crops. The role requires strong agronomic knowledge (ideally the candidate will have or be working towards their BASIS qualification) excellent organisational skills, and the ability to lead teams during the busy growing and harvest periods.
Key Responsibilities
Crop Production & Agronomy
* With the Farm Manager, develop and implement annual cropping plans including field selection, rotations, planting schedules, and variety choice.
* Monitor crop growth, plant health, soil conditions, pests and diseases, ensuring timely interventions within organic standards.
* Oversee irrigation and nutrient management.
* Manage planting, fleecing and weeding operations to ensure all crop needs are met in a timely manner.
* Work closely with Agronomist and Compliance Manager to maintain compliance with organic standards and customer protocols.
Harvest Planning & Quality Assurance
* Coordinate harvest schedule ensuring it is aligned with production needs.
* Conduct pre-harvest assessments, including safe harvest sign off.
* Manage your field teams to ensure crop quality and size specifications are being met.
Team Leadership & Labour Management
* Induct, lead and coordinate field teams, including supervisors, machine operators, and seasonal workers.
* Support labour planning, training, and performance management.
Record Keeping & Compliance
* Maintain accurate field records, crop diaries and harvest data.
* Support audits from certification bodies and customers.
* Contribute to risk assessments, SOP reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Health, Safety & Environment
* Ensure all field operations comply with H&S legislation and internal safety standards.
Skills & Experience Required
Essential
* Strong background in crop production, ideally with experience in brassicas or other fresh produce.
* Proven ability to lead and motivate field teams.
* Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
* Competent with farm machinery, field operations, and modern agricultural technologies.
* Strong communication skills (including across non-English speaking team) and attention to detail.
* Full UK driving licence.
Desirable
* Knowledge of organic farming systems, integrated pest management, and soil health principles.
* Experience with harvest planning or fresh produce supply chains.
* BASIS or FACTS qualifications (or willingness to work toward them).
* PA1/PA2 or relevant operator certificates.
What Pollybell Farms Offers
* Competitive salary depending on experience.
* Company vehicle.
* Opportunities for professional training and development.
* A positive working environment within a forward-thinking farming business.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Canteen
* Company car
* Company pension
* Free parking
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person