The Career Pathways
An operations manager oversees a company’s administration and overarching business practices.
Their goal is to maximise efficiency and streamline processes.
It is important the operations manager works closely with the company executives including the finance manager to ensure the lowest operating cost and highest profit.
Operations Manager, Vanstone Produce, QLD
Isaac Guise
"I love working in horticulture because of the opportunities it gives me — from the paddock to the supermarket shelf, it’s incredible to see what goes into getting fresh produce to people. For young people thinking about it, my advice is: just give it a go. You can learn everything on the job."
Operations Manager, Patane Produce, Western Australia
Lauren Patane
Q&A with Lauren Patane
While at university, I worked part-time as well. Since we are only an hour and a half from Perth, I would drive home and work two days a week, doing more administrative tasks, costings, and some quality assurance work.
When I first came home from university, I managed our broccoli packing shed, working there every day on a forklift. Over time, I gradually took on more responsibilities and got involved in different areas of the business. That is how I ended up in my current role—I just kept taking on more and more tasks.
I know so many horticultural businesses are looking for young people who want to work. If you have a strong work ethic, are interested in learning, and are willing to put in the effort, just put your hand up. Most businesses would welcome you with open arms and say, "Come on in."
I have a university degree, but you definitely do not need one. There are so many training opportunities available, including on-the-job training, internships, traineeships, and apprenticeships. You can gain all the skills you need within a horticultural business.
Additionally, whatever career path you want to take, you can find a role for it in horticulture. There are opportunities in accounting, marketing, sales, mechanical work, and many other areas.
As I mentioned before, my different roles over the years have allowed me to learn a little bit of everything, and that experience has led me to where I am today.