Research and Development Manager

Overview

Mr Apple New Zealand Ltd, the largest integrated apple grower in New Zealand, is committed to cultivating both exceptional apples and talented individuals. The company leverages science, technology, and data to enhance harvest timing, fruit quality, and deliver superior results globally. We invite an innovative professional to join as a Research and Development Manager, championing science-driven improvements in harvest outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead harvest research and maturity science initiatives by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting fruit maturity data to guide optimal harvest timing.
• Collaborate with technical managers to plan, implement, and oversee harvest-related trials, ensuring their practicality and relevance to orchard and post-harvest operations.
• Support continuous enhancement of harvest data collection and analysis through adoption and improvement of technological tools and data systems.
• Offer technical assistance to orchard and post-harvest teams, facilitating maturity sampling programs, scientific measurements, and ensuring the availability of technical data when required.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and guidance to the Laboratory team, fostering an inclusive, positive, and high-achieving work environment.

Qualifications and Experience

• Possession of a tertiary degree in horticulture, agriculture, plant science, food science, or a similar field.
• Experience working in research, laboratory, technical, quality assurance, or horticultural settings.
• Strong analytical skills complemented by dedication to scientific accuracy and maintaining data integrity.
• Capability to convey complex technical knowledge in practical and understandable ways.
• Genuine enthusiasm for innovation, technology, and ongoing process enhancement.
• Prior leadership or coordination experience within a team is advantageous.
• Eligible to work in New Zealand and able to pass relevant pre-employment screening.

Benefits and Opportunities

• Collaborate with experts specializing in orchard management, post-harvest processes, research, and development.
• Influence harvest results through the application of scientific approaches, technological innovation, and data analysis.
• Engage in a supportive culture that values new ideas and continuous improvements.
• Gain exposure to leading research, breakthrough technology, and industry collaborations in horticulture.