Ripening Manager

3 weeks ago


Bicester, United Kingdom The Menu Partners Full time

Responsibilities:




  1. Oversee Hass avocado
    ripening process:


    1. Manage and supervise the
      entire ripening process of Hass avocados, ensuring they reach optimal
      ripeness, quality, and uniformity according to predetermined standards.
    2. Develop and implement
      ripening protocols specifically for Hass avocados, considering factors
      like origin, seasonality, dry matter, and desired final ripeness.
    3. Monitor and maintain
      ripening room conditions (temperature, ethylene, humidity, and
      ventilation) for optimal Hass avocado ripening.
    4. Conduct regular quality
      control checks throughout the ripening process, identifying and
      addressing any issues promptly.

  2. Inventory management and
    coordination:


    1. Coordinate with Sourcing
      and the London office the delivery of avocados to ensure a timely
      process.
    2. Maintain accurate inventory
      records of Hass avocados, including quantities, ripening stages, and
      designated storage areas.
    3. Collaborate with Sales to
      understand customer demand and adjust ripening processes to meet those
      needs.

  3. Process optimisation and
    innovation:


    1. Continuously evaluate and
      improve the efficiency of the Hass avocado ripening process, identifying
      opportunities for cost reduction and waste minimization.
    2. Stay up-to-date on
      advancements in Hass avocado ripening technologies and best practices,
      implementing them to optimize operations.
    3. Research and develop new
      ripening protocols for Hass avocados based on industry trends and
      customer needs.

  4. Quality and safety:

    1. Enforce strict adherence to
      all food safety regulations and quality control procedures throughout the
      ripening process.
    2. Maintain a clean and
      sanitised working environment in the ripening rooms to prevent
      contamination of Hass avocados.
    3. Collaborate with regular
      audits and implement corrective actions as necessary to ensure ongoing
      compliance with food safety standards.

  5. Reporting and documentation:

    1. Maintain accurate and
      detailed records of all ripening activities, including temperature logs,
      ripening times, quality control results, and inventory data.
    2. Generate reports on
      ripening performance metrics and communicate findings to relevant
      stakeholders.



Qualifications:




  1. Minimum 1-3 years of
    experience managing fresh fruits' ripening process. 
  2. Proven ability to develop,
    implement, and monitor ripening protocols.
  3. Understanding of food safety
    regulations and quality control procedures.
  4. Ability to work
    independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  5. A passion for fresh produce
    and a commitment to delivering high-quality products.


Additional Skills (desirable):




  1. Experience with Hass avocado
    ripening technologies (e.g., ethylene control systems).
  2. Prior experience working in
    a fresh produce distribution or ripening facility.
  3. Food Safety Certification
    (e.g., HACCP).