Job Title

Assistant Harvesting ManagerLocation: Holme-upon-Spalding Moor, YorkHours: 5 out of 7 days per week (flexibility required including weekends and peak periods)Salary: Competitive (full-time, permanent role)Benefits:28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays)Overtime opportunities during peak periodsCareer development in a growing and supportive environmentPension scheme (subject to eligibility)Opportunity to influence key aspects of harvesting operationsThe OpportunityThis is an excellent opportunity to join a thriving, family-run food production business in a hands-on, operational leadership role. As the Assistant Harvesting Manager, you’ll support the Harvesting Manager in all aspects of running the harvesting department — from labour planning and training to quality control, performance management and cross-functional collaboration.Your role will directly influence pick rates, product quality, team performance, and yield optimisation. You’ll be working closely with Harvesting Supervisors, Pickers, and other department managers, bringing leadership, structure, and innovation to daily operations.ResponsibilitiesAssist in the overall management of the harvesting department and cover for the Harvesting Manager as neededDeliver training, coaching and mentoring to pickers and supervisors to achieve daily pick rate targetsMonitor crop readiness and coordinate staffing plans to align with yield forecastsMaintain high product standards, focusing on weights, sizing, stalk trimming, and punnet presentationManage daily manpower planning, including agency coordination and recruitment planningComplete and maintain picker performance sheets and payroll input using ExcelEnsure timely and effective communication with packhouse, growing, production, and engineering teamsParticipate in morning meetings and proactively plan people, yields, and hours for the following dayPromote and monitor compliance with food safety, health 'safety, and hygiene protocolsSupport the integration of safe systems of work and training plans for new workersDrive a strong team culture and ensure effective onboarding and development of new staffInvestigate and resolve any safety, performance, or equipment-related issues promptlyChampion continuous improvement and best practices across the departmentContribute to Food Safety, HACCP, TACCP, and VACCP meetings and actionsSupport GMP and “clean as you go” housekeeping across growing areasIdentify process improvements and implement solutions to maximise performance and efficiencyEnsure records and work practices are compliant with FSA, food safety and H&S legislationWho We're Looking ForWe're seeking a proactive and collaborative leader with a background in fresh produce or food manufacturing. You should have a strong focus on quality and people development, be confident in handling operational demands, and committed to continuous improvement.Essential RequirementsFresh produce picking experience.Previous experience at a supervisory level on a Fresh Produce farm.Good communication skills & people management skillsExcellent organisational and interpersonal skillsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsGood basic IT & Numerical skillsTeam playerDesirable (Not Essential)Previous experience as a Harvesting Manager in fresh produce industry.Advanced Food Hygiene Qualification.Degree level Education.For more information, please contact Travis Townsend at Major Recruitment on 07771 707579 or Travistownsend@