Head of Packhouse Operations – Direct-to-Customer Organic Produce
Location: Central Mangrove, NSW
Hours: Monday – Thursday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Friday 8:30 – 18:30
Reports to: Farm Manager
Zestiny Farm is on the lookout for a hands‑on, super‑organised head of packhouse operations to help continue the success of our direct‑to‑customer organic fruit and vegetable business. Based on our working organic farm in Central Mangrove on the Central Coast, this diverse and hands‑on role is suited to someone who is physically strong, independent and organised. We’re looking for an all‑rounder who demonstrates attention to detail, and is genuinely passionate about nutrient‑dense, delicious produce.
Role Overview
As head of packhouse operations, you’ll be central to our member satisfaction and our customers experience with Zestiny Farm products. You will be responsible for planning, preparing and packing our weekly subscription‑based orders, coordinating and supporting our weekly farmers market stall, and being actively involved in day‑to‑day operations including customer service, vendor liaison and coordination of produce. You’ll work closely with the farm manager, other on‑farm staff, as well as our wholesale and subscription customers, maintaining an active dialogue with marketing to align supply, storytelling and seasonal features in our communications. This role is ideal for a capable and motivated all‑rounder with a can‑do attitude and a passion for food and people.
Key Responsibilities
* End‑to‑end operational oversight of our produce delivery business
* Customer service, feedback management, and member engagement
* Produce procurement and wholesale account management
* Inventory, packaging, and logistics coordination
* Casual staff rostering and supervision
* Administrative duties including invoicing, scheduling, and reporting
* Quality assurance
* Collaborating with marketing to shape weekly product features and campaigns
* Planning and running seasonal on‑farm experiences for current and prospective members
Essential Skills
Personal Attributes
* Physical capability – able to lift and move produce crates (up to 20 kg), climb ladders, work in narrow spaces, stand for long periods
* Pre‑employment medical may be requested
* Prepared to work in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures, including in a cool‑room environment
* A valid Australian driver’s licence and comfort driving a van in city traffic
* A passion for fresh food—appreciation for nutrition, seasonality and flavour
* A belief in the Zestiny Farm mission to create a community of loyal members who value nutrient‑dense, farm‑fresh food
Relationships
* Strong communication skills and a customer‑first mindset. Able to listen, respond and enhance experiences and processes
* Ability to collaborate with a variety of stakeholders including suppliers, contractors, management and staff
Results
* Ability to plan and prioritise – proven track record in roles requiring high‑level planning and time management under pressure
* Ability to meet deadlines, troubleshoot and deliver results with attention to detail
* Demonstrated skills in identifying opportunities for growth and improvement
Business Optimisation
* Technology – strong computer literacy, confidence in office systems, Excel and social media platforms
* Finance, purchasing and procurement expertise – ordering of supplies and equipment, strong negotiation skills and a value‑for‑money mindset, determining pricing for retail stall produce, invoicing to wholesale customers, processing payments
* Proven skills in project management and enhancing business outcomes – reporting of milestones, identifying trends, improving processes, monitoring of supplies, rotation of stock, set‑up and pack‑down
* Excellent organisational skills. Capable of managing your time with the ability to juggle multiple priorities
* Ability to cook, prepare and present food – for use on social media or suggestions of use for some produce items
* Experience in events planning and logistics – in relation to on‑farm experiences for customers, community and stakeholders
The Head of Packhouse Operations at Zestiny Farm is a unique opportunity to get involved with a growing, purpose‑driven venture from the ground (or paddock) up.
If you’re ready to get your hands dirty and be a part of something meaningful, we’d love to hear from you. To apply for this role, please email your resume and cover letter detailing how you meet the essential skills listed above to: ******@zestinyfarm.com
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