Regional Manager, Large-Scale Farming Operations

This role plays a critical part in managing a large-scale farming operation, ensuring efficiency, productivity and quality across all operational areas. The position requires a blend of strategic thinking and hands-on execution, balancing short term productivity needs with long-term operational sustainability.  The role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to lead teams effectively under pressure, and a deep understanding of California’s agricultural practices.

This position would lead a team of 5 to 15 team members and cover over 12,000 acres of permanent tree crops. The ideal candidate excels in a fast-moving environment, demonstrates strong leadership, and is committed to delivering consistent results across multiple operational areas.

Position Responsibilities:

Individual Responsibilities:

70% Planning, implementing and executing daily operations in the region:

• Lead and direct a team of Area Managers to ensure implementation and execution of effective, efficient, orderly, and timely farming operations.

• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork and ensure safety and compliance are a top priority for operations

• Coordinate with water districts, regulatory agencies, and internal stakeholders on key SGMA and GSA strategies for the region

• Accountable for the performance of the property budgets to perform within the total budget framework. OR. Contribute to annual budgeting and forecasting processes and track and report key performance indicators in senior management.

• Identify and monitor Sustainability and Stewardship projects on the client properties

• Analyze operational data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement to ensure fiduciary responsibilities to the clients by maximizing ROI on capital projects

• Processing invoices, monitoring cashflows and following up on accounting processes

Shared Responsibilities:

15% Working with other company business units:

• Work with Legal Team when necessary to mitigate risk for our clients

• Work with Acquisition Team to provide operational insight and strategy

• Work with Water Team to develop strategies and track GSP implementation

• Work with Sustainability and Stewardship Team to communicate and plan practices and implementation 

• Work with analyst from various aspects of the company to provide data and ensure accuracy, participate in tours

• Work with Safety/Compliance Team to provide a safe work environment for all employees and mitigate risk to the clients

15% Manage Industry Relationships

• Maintain working relationship with FLC and Contractors

• Participate in GSA meetings, implement strategies to enhance water security

• Grow relationships with processors and vendors

• Learn and understand how our company positions within the industry

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in agriculture related field with 6 years management experience in key commodities within the region or 10 years management experience

• Key Commodities include but not limited to: Pistachios, Almonds, Walnuts, Citrus and Wine Grapes

• Must have proven verbal, written communication and presentation skills to analyze and convey complex scenarios within the region

• Must be a strong team player and with demonstrated leader abilities

• Demonstrate strong computer and analytical skill sets, including proficiency with Microsoft Office

• Must be able to work well with multiple personality types

• Must have a valid CA Drivers License and be insurable by the companies insurance carrier

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bi-lingual strongly preferred

When you join our team:

• We’ll empower you to learn and grow the career you want.

• We’ll recognize and support you in a flexible environment where well-being and inclusion are more than just words.

• As part of our global team, we’ll support you in shaping the future you want to see.

About Manulife and John Hancock

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. To learn more about us, visit https://www.manulife.com/en/about/our-story.html.

Manulife is an Equal Opport