Machinery/Spray Manager

What does a typical day in your role look like?

As Managing Director, I oversee five departments across my businesses. Day to day, I manage a team of six—three spray operators and two tractor drivers handling mowing and weed spraying. I also help plan maintenance with our in-house mechanic.

In my director role, I work closely with two business partners who act as operations managers. One oversees six staff applying sprays to kiwifruit, while the other manages 6–8 staff working on avocado spraying, kiwifruit fertiliser application, and running bin trucks during harvest.

During peak season, I like to jump into the machines or trucks myself to lead from the front when workloads or weather create pressure.

There’s also a fair amount of paperwork to review and approve, given the amount of equipment we run. My daily schedule includes compliance, safe operations, health and safety, and maintaining strong client relationships.

How did you get into this role?

I built my way up over the past 15 years, starting as a sole owner-operator.

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

No, I didn’t study for this role.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I take pride in growing the business in a positive and controlled way, and in delivering the best service we can. I still enjoy all aspects of my day-to-day work, especially the busy periods when I get to work late into the night alongside my team.

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

Operating machinery isn’t for everyone, but the challenges we face can be really rewarding when we get things right. It’s great to hear the team talk about how they overcame obstacles without damaging gear or getting stuck. Most of the crew really enjoy working outdoors, which is a big part of what we do.

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

Be prepared for physical work and understand that this is a seasonal industry. Chemicals are a part of daily operations, so having knowledge and awareness in that area is important. Look for opportunities to become a skilled operator and develop mechanical know-how—it’ll take you far.

Anything else that you would like to add?

This is a fast-growing industry with lots of opportunities for young people to thrive. I hope my light-hearted story shows that sometimes careers happen by accident—but they can also be found.