Please note: it is a requirement that the successful candidate can be based in or near Coffs Harbour, NSW.
We are seeking an experienced Post-Harvest Technical Manager to join our Berry International Category, to provide strategic and technical leadership across post harvest activities within our global berry operations. This role has responsibility for setting post harvest standards, driving quality and shelf‐life performance, reducing losses, and supporting market growth across multiple regions.
Acting as the central post harvest subject matter expert, you will work in close partnership with regional growing, operations, quality and commercial teams to strengthen cold chain performance, packaging effectiveness, and MA/CA processes through guidance, trials, and capability building.
This role has influence at a global level but does not hold direct operational control, requiring strong credibility, technical judgement, and the ability to influence outcomes through collaboration.
The Opportunity
* Partner with growing, operations, QA and commercial teams to lift post harvest performance from harvest through to customer delivery
* Provide expert technical guidance to regions on post harvest physiology, cold chain management, packaging and MA/CA systems
* Define and continuously improve global cold chain and post harvest best‐practice frameworks, balancing consistency with regional needs
* Oversee post harvest trials and R&D activity, translating data and insights into practical, scalable improvements
* Evaluate emerging technologies in packaging, atmosphere management and handling, and advise on their global application
* Build post harvest capability across regions through coaching, training, and the development of global tools and guidelines
* Influencing outcomes without direct line management or operational control
* Managing variability in climate, infrastructure, product and transit conditions
* Translating complex science into practical, regionally applicable guidance
* Driving adoption of new practices across diverse geographies and cultures
Qualifications
* Tertiary qualification in Food Science, Post harvest Technology, Horticulture, Agriculture or a related discipline
* Postgraduate qualifications or specialist training in postharvest science, packaging or supply chain optimisation (desirable)
Experience & Expertise
* Extensive experience in post harvest technical or operational roles within fresh produce or food supply chains
* Deep expertise in post harvest physiology, cold chain systems, shelf‐life drivers and fruit handling
* Strong knowledge of packaging science and MA/CA systems
* Experience working across multiple sites or regions, ideally in a global or centralised role
* Exposure to international retail, export and regulatory requirements
* Experience leading post harvest R&D programs or trials
* Working knowledge of compliance systems (e.g. HACCP, GlobalG.A.P., export protocols)
Capabilities
* Able to influence and align stakeholders without formal authority
* Strong analytical ability to interpret trial data and quality metrics
* Clear communicator who can translate science into practical action
* Strategic, systems‐thinking mindset with a continuous improvement focus
* Comfortable working across cultures, time zones and levels of technical maturity
Additional Information
* This role is global in scope and requires regular domestic and international travel
* Flexible working hours are required to support global stakeholders across time zones
Costa is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds.
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