PRODUCE MANAGER
Connings Food Market, Nelson
Full time
Lead fresh — from field to market.
Do you bring a positive, can-do attitude?
Do you lead by example and do the right thing?
Do you have your team’s back?
If yes — let’s talk.
Connings is a long-established, respected market garden supplying premium local produce to markets and our own Connings Food Market. From seed to shelf, quality is everything — and our Produce Manager plays a key role in making that happen.
We’re looking for a hands-on, energetic Produce Manager to lead our produce team and oversee the flow of fresh product from post-harvest through to customer.
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• You’ll lead the day-to-day produce operation — from back-of-house handling through to retail presentation
• You’ll be on the floor, setting the pace, standards, and tone for the team
• You’ll ensure product is fresh, well-presented, and available for customers at all times
• This is a practical leadership role in a fast-moving, physically active environment• The role is full-time, rostered across the full week, with early starts and one weekend day required
• Flexibility essential during peak harvest periods -
• Leading, organising, and supporting the produce team day-to-day
• Managing stock levels, display, and product flow from dispatch to shop floor
• Planning workflow to ensure efficiency across busy periods
• Training and developing team members
• Managing rosters, leave, and daily staffing needs
• Maintaining high standards of quality, presentation, food safety, and compliance
• Ensuring excellent customer experience through well-presented, fresh produce
• Keeping work areas clean, safe, and well organised -
You’re someone who:
• Leads from the front and isn’t afraid to roll your sleeves up
• Is positive, practical, and solutions-focused
• Can manage people while keeping operations running smoothly
• Stays calm and organised in a fast-paced environment
• Has strong attention to detail and pride in quality
• Is physically fit and comfortable lifting (up to 20kg)
• Has experience in produce, retail, horticulture, or a similar environmentm description -
• A key leadership role in a growing, well-regarded local business
• Real responsibility and the ability to shape how the operation runs
• A supportive, down-to-earth team environment
• Opportunities for growth and development -
If you’re ready to lead from the front and make a real impact every day — we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience.
We review applications as they come in, so don’t delay.
Applicants must have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.