Field Collections Manager

What does a typical day in your role look like?

My role is all about making sure our field operations run smoothly across orchards and laboratories. This includes planning schedules, supporting and guiding staff, working with growers and industry partners, and reviewing data for accuracy.

Some days I’m out in the field collecting samples or auditing our teams, while other days I’m in the office coordinating projects and ensuring everything is on track. Every day brings a mix of leadership, problem-solving, and variety.

How did you get into this role?

I started as a seasonal Field Technician in 2022 and quickly realised how much I enjoyed the work and the people in the kiwifruit industry. After that season, I moved into a permanent Field Supervisor role, which helped me grow my leadership skills and manage operations more closely. In 2024, I stepped into the Field Operations Manager position. I’ve had great support from my employer, Seeka, throughout this journey. The kiwifruit industry is engaging—the people, the work, and the seasonal rhythm make it a great place to build a career.

Did you need to study for this role, if so, what did you study?

Formal qualifications aren’t required, but they’re definitely helpful. My background in landscape architecture gave me a strong understanding of natural environments and systems thinking. Most of my technical skills—like pest monitoring and health and safety—were developed through industry training and hands-on experience. Relevant study areas include horticulture, science, or business.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I love the variety—no two days are the same. It’s rewarding to balance time outdoors in the orchards with leading people and improving systems that support the kiwifruit industry. Seeing how our work directly impacts harvest decisions and export readiness is especially satisfying.

What’s something unique, surprising, or fun about your role or team?

The scale of our seasonal operations is pretty unique. During peak season, our workforce grows to over 300 people across multiple regions. Coordinating all of that while maintaining accuracy and safety is a big challenge, but also very rewarding. People are often surprised by how much our behind-the-scenes work influences the fruit that ends up in supermarkets around the world.

What advice would you give someone interested in your role or career path?

Start with seasonal work—it’s a great way to get a feel for the industry and is open to people of all ages and backgrounds. Be reliable, ask questions, and look for chances to take on more responsibility. If you enjoy problem-solving, working with people, and being outdoors, there are clear pathways into leadership and management roles.

Anything else that you would like to add?

The kiwifruit industry is constantly evolving and full of opportunities for those ready to take on responsibility and lead. If you’re interested in the environment, enjoy working with people, and are open to learning and adapting, this can be a truly rewarding career.