Agronomist – LeaderBrand Produce Ltd

WHERE

At LeaderBrand, they are passionate about evolving fresh food, creating a healthier world. As a proud family-owned business, their goal is to become New Zealand's most consistent and efficient fresh food producer. Their 400+ people nationwide are the heart of their success. They are always on the lookout for new talent with energy, passion, and a drive to learn—people excited to help shape the future of fresh food.

The Agronomist position is based in Gisborne, a sun-soaked city known for its beaches, surf, and being the first city to see the sunrise. Gisborne offers plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, fishing, biking, and camping. The city combines a relaxed, close-knit lifestyle with popular local events, including Rhythm and Vines and the Gisborne Wine and Food Festival.

WHAT

Step into the heart of New Zealand's leading horticultural business as an Agronomist with LeaderBrand. In this hands-on role, you'll be part of a dynamic cropping team, helping grow high-quality salad leaves and vegetables from planting through to harvest. Every day is different, with opportunities to get involved in crop monitoring, irrigation, pest and disease management, machinery operation, and accurate production record-keeping.

You'll work closely with the Salad Leaf Production Manager and the wider farm team to ensure crops meet LeaderBrand's exacting standards. This is your chance to be right where the action is by supporting crop health, overseeing daily farm operations, and playing a key role in delivering fresh, top-quality produce to market.

Beyond crops, depending on your experience you may help supervise and train staff, contribute to the maintenance of health and safety and environmental standards, and have input into driving continuous improvement across the operation. LeaderBrand's vertically integrated model means you'll collaborate across teams and gain hands-on experience in every aspect of modern horticulture. No two days are the same, making this an exciting role with real growth opportunities in agronomy and farm management.

To read more about the position and business structure please visit –

WHO

We seek a physically fit hands-on Agronomist who loves being outdoors, learning new skills, and contributing to growing fresh and healthy produce. Does this sound like you?

· Tertiary qualification in Agriculture or a related field (Bachelor's degree or higher preferred).

· Some knowledge of farming practices, crop management, farm machinery, irrigation and equipment.

· You may be an experienced field technician, a recent graduate or perhaps an agronomist with a few years' experience.  LeaderBrand welcomes expressions of interest from all levels.

· Understanding of environmental regulations.

· Strong communication skills to liaise with staff and stakeholders.

· Excellent time management, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

· Accurate record-keeping skills and tech-savvy.

· Safety-first mindset, observant and detail-focused for monitoring crop health.

· Able to work well in a collaborative environment and guide staff as required.

· Open to variety, able to handle changing priorities and seasonal pressures.

· Eager to learn, develop skills, and build a long-term career in agronomy and horticulture.

WHY

· LeaderBrand values their employees like family offering a supportive, friendly, and secure work environment.

· Be part of a purpose-driven business that's leading the way in fresh produce by evolving fresh food and creating a healthier world.

· Training, support, exposure and plenty of growth internally within LeaderBrand and externally in the wider industry – invest in yourself by growing and leveraging your career from this incredible network.

· Awesome teammates with a positive team culture deeply ingrained in the business.

· Employment with a highly successful and well-resourced business.

· Contribute to sustainability and innovation in large-scale vegetable production.

· Be exposed to the end-user with hourly market updates on produce.

· Generous staff offering of daily bagged salads and slaws, and delicious fresh produce straight from the field.

· If you are not already a local, take a serious look at joining the flow of people heading to Gisborne who have recognised the great work opportunities and lifestyle on offer.

HOW

· To apply for this role, please hit the APPLY button

· For further information on this role please visit

· For a confidential chat give Rebecca at Rural Directions a call on

Applications close 7th December however, apply ASAP as we will be reviewing applications as they are received and may close the role early if a suitable candidate is found.