Head Grower
3 weeks ago
DescriptionThe
Ferguson Tree Nursery is looking for a
Head Grower to lead the Nursery's bare root, potted stock,
plug, perennial and seed programs into its next phase of growth. The Ferguson Tree Nursery specializes
in the production of species native to eastern Ontario. We produce deciduous and coniferous trees,
shrubs, and perennial flowers and grasses. In addition, we are actively growing a native seed program to
provide seed for our own plantings and for clients. As Head Grower, you would oversee all these
programs, working with the Director of Sales and Business Development and the Director of Finance and
Human Resources to ensure the financial success of the business and the satisfaction of our clients.
The Ferguson Tree Nursery is the revenue generating arm of the Ferguson Forest Centre. The Ferguson
Forest Centre is a non-profit corporation with a mandate to support sustainable forestry practices
provincially and beyond, and also provide high quality outdoor recreation opportunities to the
surrounding community. In addition to the Nursery grounds, we manage an extensive 1100 acre trail
system, a native species Arboretum, and a community dog park. We work with other organisations
collaboratively to offer other recreational activities such as cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, disk golf,
and canoe/kayak launch into Kemptville Creek.
The Ferguson Tree Nursery is located in Kemptville, Ontario just 40minutes south of Ottawa. While
offering all the benefits of small town, country living, it also boasts quick access to some of the top
universities, cultural institutions, healthcare, restaurants and sporting events in the country.
Your Role
Working with the Director of Sales and Business Development, you will collaborate to develop the
production plan to ensure targets are met to fulfill customer needs for all the species and formats
required. In addition, you will ensure the expected quality standards are met for the various client
groups. You will have responsibility for the long-term planning and execution of cultural practices
necessary to ensure productive fields, hoophouses, and greenhouses.
Working with the Director of Finance and Human Resources, you will be responsible for the efficient use
of human, physical and financial resources in the growing program. You will be a core contributor to
staff planning and budgeting and will be engaged all year in managing to those plans to ensure success.
The Ferguson Tree Nursery puts great value in developing our people, their skills, knowledge and
expertise. Your impressive staff management skills will include directing the work of and mentoring the
Section Growers in each of the key programs and helping them develop in their roles and grow their
knowledge and technical skills. You will also help them effectively manage their own staff to ensure all
employees in the programs have the opportunity to grow, learn and be engaged in our Mission and
Values.
Are you up for the challenge?
In order to succeed in this role, we would expect that you will bring an impressive combination of
education, skills, and high-level experience in a similar business
This will include:
- A postsecondary degree in forestry, horticulture or agriculture from a recognized institution;
- 10 years combined experience in nursery and/or forestry operations;
- 5 years progressive business management experience, preferably in a growing facility, including
- Proven leadership ability with a philosophy of collaboration and mentorship to ensure positive
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
- Excellent ability to manage human and physical resources among competing programs,
require modifying plans;
- A selfdirected attitude towards learning, problemsolving, rigorous research and integrating
- A high standard of ethical behaviour.
What we Offer
The Ferguson Tree Nursery offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience. In addition, our
benefits program includes:
- 3 weeks of paid holidays per year
- RSP matching program
- Subscription drug and allied health professional coverage (i.e. chiropractor, physio, naturopath,
- Annual clothing allowance