General Manager – Flowers Section

Job Title: General Manager – Flower Section

Company Overview Our client is a renowned agribusiness specializing in the horticultural production and export of vegetables and fruit from Kenya. With operations spanning across various farms and packhouses in the country, they cater to clients worldwide, including Europe and the Middle East. In their pursuit of excellence, they are seeking a dynamic and experienced General Manager – Flower Section to lead their business to new heights.

Location Nanyuki, Kenya

General Manager Responsibilities

Technical Experience:

• Implement and oversee a successful production program using best management practices to maintain flower quality, maximize pack outs, and minimize storage decay.
• Evaluate storage conditions and suggest necessary improvements for greater efficiency and accuracy.
• Direct the development, production, and propagation of hybrid plant/roses varieties with desired characteristics, overseeing operations related to pest and disease management.
• Oversee internal and external audit functions, providing guidance on processes and procedures.

Leadership:

• Provide strategic direction and set key performance indicators to ensure effective farm operations.
• Lead and mentor the management team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and goal achievement.
• Make staffing decisions, enforce safety regulations, and support team members in achieving objectives.

Financial:

• Manage the Profit & Loss of flower production, maintaining accurate records and preparing financial reports.
• Collaborate with the finance manager to develop operational plans and evaluate financial performance.

Communication:

• Ensure timely implementation of the company’s business objectives and strategic plan.
• Allocate acreage for flower farming based on market conditions and demands.
• Manage procurement of machinery, equipment, and supplies, monitoring inventory levels and communicating needs to headquarters.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in BSc or Horticulture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ senior-level experience in the floriculture sector.
• Understanding of the agricultural sector is advantageous.

Other Competences

• Demonstrated commitment, honesty, and integrity.
• Ability to work under pressure, take initiative, and align with company goals.
• Proficiency in production budgeting, forecasting, and administration.
• Strong organizational, people management, and supervisory skills.
• Deep understanding of industry standards and regulatory requirements.

How to Apply

If you are up to the challenge and meet the qualifications, please email your CV to angela@marqueventures.co.ke with the subject line “General Manager” by February 26th, 2024. Kindly include your current/last salary on your CV.

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for General Manager – Flower Section:

1. Demonstrate Leadership Experience: Highlight your experience leading teams and driving results in the floriculture or related industry.
2. Emphasize Financial Acumen: Showcase your ability to manage budgets, analyze financial data, and make strategic decisions to improve profitability.
3. Showcase Technical Expertise: Provide examples of your knowledge and experience in flower production, pest and disease management, and quality control.
4. Highlight Communication Skills: Clearly articulate your ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, both internally and externally.
5. Illustrate Problem-Solving Skills: Share instances where you identified challenges, developed solutions, and implemented improvements to enhance operational efficiency.
6. Exhibit Adaptability: Demonstrate your flexibility and adaptability in navigating changing market conditions, regulations, and industry trends.
7. Illustrate Strategic Thinking: Describe how you have developed and executed strategic plans to achieve long-term business objectives.
8. Provide Evidence of Results: Quantify your achievements, such as increased productivity, cost savings, or revenue growth, to demonstrate your impact.
9. Show Cultural Fit: Express your alignment with the company’s values, vision, and commitment to excellence in horticultural production.
10. Prepare for the Interview: Research the company, anticipate potential questions, and practice articulating your qualifications and experiences effectively.

Sample Cover Letter for a General Manager – Flower Section

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key responsibilities of the General Manager – Flower Section role? The General Manager oversees all aspects of flower production, including planning, implementation, and quality control. They are responsible for maximizing efficiency, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and driving profitability.

2. What qualifications are required for the General Manager position? Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture or a related field, a minimum of five years’ senior-level experience in the floriculture sector, and a strong understanding of agricultural practices.

3. How can I demonstrate my leadership skills in the application process? Provide examples of your experience leading teams, setting goals, and achieving results. Highlight instances where you mentored employees, resolved conflicts, and fostered a positive work environment.

4. What is the importance of financial management in this role? Financial management is critical for overseeing the Profit & Loss of flower production, budgeting, forecasting, and preparing financial reports. It helps in making informed decisions to optimize resource allocation and drive profitability.

5. How can I showcase my communication skills in the application? Highlight your ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, including team members, suppliers, and clients. Provide examples of how you have conveyed complex information clearly and persuasively.

6. What role does strategic planning play in the General Manager’s responsibilities? Strategic planning is essential for setting long-term objectives, identifying growth opportunities, and adapting to changing market conditions. General Managers develop and execute strategic plans to drive business success.

7. How can I demonstrate my commitment to quality and compliance? Discuss your experience implementing quality control measures, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and participating in audits and inspections. Emphasize your dedication to maintaining high standards of excellence.

8. What challenges might I face in this role, and how can I address them? Challenges may include fluctuating market demand, pest and disease outbreaks, and regulatory changes. Demonstrating adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to addressing challenges will be essential.

9. What opportunities for professional development and advancement are available? Marque Ventures values continuous learning and offers opportunities for training, skill development, and career advancement. Employees are encouraged to take on new challenges and pursue growth opportunities within the company.

10. How does Marque Ventures promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace? Marque Ventures is committed to creating an inclusive work environment that values diversity and promotes equality. The company actively seeks to attract and retain employees from diverse backgrounds and fosters a culture of respect and collaboration.

Possible General Manager – Flower Section Interview Questions With Answers:

1. Question: Can you describe your experience in leading a team in the floriculture industry? Answer: Certainly. In my previous role as Farm Manager, I led a team of 50 employees in executing daily operations, implementing best practices, and achieving production targets. I provided guidance, training, and mentorship to ensure team members were aligned with organizational goals.
2. Question: How do you approach budgeting and financial management in flower production? Answer: I believe in a strategic approach to budgeting, which involves forecasting expenses, analyzing revenue streams, and identifying opportunities for cost savings. By closely monitoring financial performance and adjusting strategies as needed, I ensure optimal resource allocation and profitability.
3. Question: How do you prioritize tasks and manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment? Answer: I prioritize tasks based on their impact on overall objectives and deadlines. I delegate responsibilities effectively, empower team members to make decisions autonomously, and maintain open communication to address any challenges that arise promptly.
4. Question: Can you provide an example of a challenge you encountered in flower production and how you addressed it? Answer: Certainly. In a previous role, we faced a significant pest outbreak that threatened our crop yield. I immediately mobilized a response team, implemented integrated pest management strategies, and collaborated with experts to mitigate the infestation. Through proactive measures and effective communication, we were able to minimize losses and maintain production levels.
5. Question: How do you ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations in flower production? Answer: I stay updated on industry regulations, participate in training programs, and conduct regular audits to assess compliance. I work closely with regulatory agencies, implement corrective actions as needed, and foster a culture of adherence to quality and safety standards among team members.

6. Question: How do you motivate and inspire your team to achieve targets? Answer: I believe in leading by example and fostering a positive work environment where team members feel valued and motivated to excel. I recognize individual contributions, provide regular feedback and encouragement, and empower team members to take ownership of their work.

7. Question: Can you describe your experience with hybrid plant/roses varieties development? Answer: In my previous role, I was involved in the selection, propagation, and testing of hybrid plant/roses varieties. I collaborated with breeders, agronomists, and researchers to identify desirable traits, conduct trials, and evaluate performance. This experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of hybridization techniques and their application in commercial production.

8. Question: How do you ensure safety regulations are enforced on the farm? Answer: Safety is a top priority on the farm, and I enforce strict safety protocols to protect the well-being of employees and visitors. This includes conducting regular safety training, implementing preventive measures, and conducting inspections to identify and address potential hazards.

9. Question: How do you handle conflicts or disputes among team members? Answer: I believe in addressing conflicts promptly and constructively to maintain a harmonious work environment. I facilitate open communication, listen to all parties involved, and work collaboratively to find mutually acceptable solutions. By fostering a culture of respect and cooperation, I encourage positive relationships among team members.

10. Question: What strategies do you employ to stay updated on industry trends and innovations? Answer: I stay informed through industry publications, attending conferences, and networking with peers and experts in the field. I also encourage continuous learning among team members and actively seek opportunities to explore new technologies and practices that can enhance our operations.

Wishing you the best in your application process! Marque Ventures is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds, and we do not charge any application/recruitment fees.

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