Farm Operations Manager

HRM Contracting and consulting – Hervey Bay QLD Trees & Bees Farms is seeking an experienced and passionate Farm Operations Manager to lead our unique mixed-operation enterprise across two highly innovative plantation sites on the Fraser Coast. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in premium Manuka honey production, large-scale plantation management, and the development of commercial horticultural operations set to launch in 2027. If you’re a hands-on leader who thrives in nature, enjoys variety, and is passionate about sustainable farming, this role offers an exceptional and rewarding environment. About the Role As our Farm Operations Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of both tree plantations and apiculture activities, working closely with Directors, Beekeepers, contractors, and farm staff. You will manage over 70,000 Leptospermum trees, finger lime cultivation across 58 acres, and coordinate honey production and farm maintenance activities. Strategic & Commercial Leadership Lead farm operations towards a 2027 commercial launch Develop and implement comprehensive Farm Management Plans Manage budgets, control costs, and drive profitability with accounts support Deliver quality performance reporting to Directors Identify market opportunities and prepare for commercial distribution Plantation & Crop Management Oversee established and developing plantation sites Support Manuka honey production through optimal plantation management Implement seasonal programs across irrigation, pest management, and crop care Maintain detailed records on production, treatments, and performance Manage soil health, irrigation systems, and environmental conditions Apiary Management Coordinate beekeeping activities with internal and external Beekeepers Support honey production targets and quality standards Align apiary work with plantation schedules to ensure bee safety Manage hive placement, honey extraction logistics, storage, and inventory Business & Commercial Operations Drive budgets, planning, and operational improvements Market premium honey and produce to domestic and international markets Ensure compliance with quality, traceability, and certification standards Infrastructure & Maintenance Oversee farm equipment, heavy vehicles, and general repairs Maintain irrigation infrastructure across both sites Ensure workplace health and safety compliance Team Leadership Lead, support, and develop a high-performing farm team Foster a positive, safe, and collaborative workplace culture Coordinate contractors and uphold Trees & Bees’ commitment to working in harmony with nature About You Essential Minimum 5 years’ experience in commercial plantation, horticultural, or broadacre farm management Proven track record developing commercial horticultural operations including formalising business practices through building frameworks. Experience creating and implementing Farm Management Plans Sound financial management skills including budgeting and reporting Demonstrated experience managing teams of 5+ employees Knowledge of WHS compliance and safety management Experience with farming technology and reporting systems ChemCert certification Strong knowledge of irrigation and horticultural equipment High attention to detail with the ability to work autonomously Excellent communication and leadership skills Current driver’s licence and ability to operate farm machinery Authority to work in Australia Desirable Qualifications in Agriculture, Horticulture, or similar Experience with beekeeping or Manuka honey production Familiarity with Precision Agriculture technologies You will thrive in this role if you are proactive, adaptable, and passionate about sustainable farming practices. A love of the outdoors and physical farm work is essential. What We Offer A long‑term, stable role with a growing agricultural enterprise Opportunity to contribute to innovative honey and horticulture production A supportive team culture that values balance, development, and working with nature Varied, hands‑on work across two beautiful Fraser Coast properties #J-18808-Ljbffr