Grower Relations Manager

Overview
A leading Northern California Nut Processor is seeking an experienced Grower Relations Manager. Responsible for managing and maintaining relationships between the company and its network of growers. This role ensures that growers are supported, informed, and aligned with the company's quality standards, expectations, and supply chain processes. The representative plays a key role in maintaining effective communication, addressing concerns, and ensuring a smooth and reliable flow of products from growers to the company.
Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with growers.
• Serve as the main point of contact for growers, addressing their concerns, inquiries, and providing ongoing support.
• Function as an advocate for growers within the company, ensuring their needs and feedback are heard.
• Collaborate with growers to ensure compliance with company standards, industry regulations, and sustainability practices.
• Conduct regular farm visits and audits to monitor product quality, adherence to guidelines, and sustainable practices.
• Strong understanding of market conditions, pricing structures and grower return strategies to effectively communicate with the grower.
• Coordinate with quality control teams to resolve any issues related to product quality or production in an efficient and timely manner.
• Coordinate with internal teams (e.g., logistics, and operations) to ensure timely and efficient product delivery from growers.
• Monitor harvest schedules, inventory levels, and shipment timelines to ensure a steady supply of products.
• Address any disruptions in the supply chain, collaborating with growers to identify solutions.
• Provide growers with relevant training on best agricultural practices, modern technology, and company policies.
• Keep growers informed of changes in regulations, market trends, or innovations that may affect their operations or the companies.
• Organize workshops or educational sessions to help growers improve productivity, sustainability, and product quality.
• Address any operational, logistical, or financial challenges faced by growers in a timely and effective manner.
• Collaborate with internal teams to resolve issues related to product quality, pricing, payment, or delivery.
• Mediate disputes or concerns between growers and the company, ensuring a fair resolution.
• Maintain accurate records of grower communications, transactions, and performance metrics.
• Prepare regular reports on grower performance, supply chain metrics, and any issues that need attention.
• Analyze data to identify trends or opportunities for improvement in grower relations and operations.
• Gather feedback from growers to inform company strategies, product development, and customer needs.
• Share insights with internal teams on market conditions, crop yields, and potential risks or opportunities.
• Monitor industry trends and report on developments that may impact the grower network or company operations.
• Qualifications and Skills:
• Education: A bachelor's degree in agriculture, business, supply chain management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: At least 2-3 years of experience in agricultural sales, supply chain management, or grower relations.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with agricultural practices, crop cycles, and supply chain logistics.

Skills

• Possess a strong understanding of grower relations.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport with growers and internal teams.
• Excellent problem-solving and negotiation abilities.
• Proficiency in data analysis, reporting tools, and CRM systems.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Other Requirements

• Willingness to travel to grower sites for visits, audits, or meetings as required.
• California Drivers License and ability to be covered under the company insurance policy.
• Ability to adapt to changing conditions and provide timely solutions.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices and environmental considerations is a plus.

Working Conditions

• Full-time, on-site or hybrid work, with travel to grower farms or production facilities.
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to meet urgent needs or deadlines.

Compensation:
This position offers a competitive salary ($95-125k) depending on experience and qualifications. In addition: Medical, Dental, Vision insurance. Paid vacation, sick, and holiday pay. 401k retirement contribution. 
All offers of employment contingent on a background check. EOE. Please note that Morrison does not recruit from client personnel (click here for details).