Job Title: Head of Genetics
Reporting To: Genetics Director

Role Overview
The Head of Genetics is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Genetics function, ensuring the team, programmes and resources are effectively managed in support of the Company’s genetics strategy and commercial objectives.
The role will work closely with the Genetics Director to manage and develop the Genetics team. A key focus will be identifying, evaluating and developing new varieties, assessing their potential across different production regions, growing systems, market windows and customer requirements.
The role will develop strong relationships with breeders and genetics organisations, understanding their programmes and supporting access to promising new genetic material. It will also provide structure, coordination and focus across the Genetics programme as the function continues to grow.

Key Responsibilities
• Manage the Genetics team, providing clear direction, objectives and priorities.
• Oversee recruitment, performance, development and day-to-day people management within the team.
• Plan and coordinate the varietal programme for blackberry development and trials across the Company’s operating regions.
• Manage the development pipeline of blackberries, ensuring varieties are appropriately evaluated and progressed.
• Identify, evaluate and develop new blackberry varieties with potential to support the Company’s long-term commercial growth.
• Evaluate new varieties against production, market and customer requirements, supporting decisions on progression through trials and commercialisation.
•Develop relationships with breeders and genetics organisations, supporting access, licensing and exclusivity arrangements for promising new genetic material.
• Work closely with Production and other relevant functions, providing technical support and guidance where required to support effective delivery of the blackberry programme.
• Monitor programme progress, resources and priorities, addressing issues as they arise.
• Develop effective processes and ways of working as the Genetics function grows.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external genetics and breeding partners.
• Contribute to the ongoing development of the Company’s genetics strategy and programme.

Essential Skills & Experience
• Proven experience in genetics, breeding, varietal development or a related technical field.
• Experience managing and developing a team.
• Strong understanding of commercial genetics, breeding programmes and varietal trials.
• Strong organisational and planning skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Commercially aware with a practical, hands-on approach.
• Experience working in a multi-site or international environment.
• Willingness to travel internationally as required.