• Lead the strategy behind some of New Zealand's most important rural categories

• Shape commercial performance and supplier partnerships at national scale

• Influence the future of agronomy, fertiliser and horticulture for Kiwi farmers and growers

At Farmlands, we're a New Zealand farmer-owned co-operative with a clear purpose: enabling improved profitability and productivity for NZ farmers and growers.

Reporting to the Chief Merchandising Officer, this executive leadership role is responsible for the strategic direction, commercial performance and supplier partnerships across Farmlands' Agronomy, Fertiliser and Horticulture categories. You'll lead category strategies that deliver shareholder value, drive profitable growth and ensure a competitive product offering that meets the evolving needs of New Zealand farmers and growers.

Mō te whai waahi | About the opportunity

Working closely with suppliers, sales, operations and marketing teams, you'll oversee product range optimisation, pricing, procurement, inventory performance and market insights across a nationally significant portfolio. You'll identify emerging trends and opportunities, negotiate key commercial partnerships and ensure Farmlands continues to deliver market-leading solutions to New Zealand's primary producers.

You'll also lead and develop a high-performing merchandising team, fostering collaboration, innovation and commercial discipline while creating an environment where people can thrive and perform at their best.

Scope at a glance

• National leadership of the Agronomy, Fertiliser and Horticulture portfolio

• Accountability for category strategy and commercial performance

• Strategic ownership of key supplier partnerships and negotiations

• Leadership of a specialist merchandising team

• Significant influence across sales, operations and marketing

• Reporting to the Chief Merchandising Officer and part of the wider merchandising leadership team

Mōhou ake | About you

You may currently be a Head of Category, Commercial Manager, Merchandise Leader, Agribusiness Executive or General Manager looking for your next challenge.

You'll bring:

• Senior leadership experience within agribusiness, horticulture, rural supply or a related commercial environment

• A proven track record of delivering growth through strong category, supplier or commercial management

• Exceptional commercial acumen across pricing, margin and portfolio performance

• Strong supplier negotiation and stakeholder management capability

• Experience leading high-performing teams through change and growth

• The credibility to influence at executive, supplier and industry level

Mō Farmlands | Why Farmlands

• Lead a portfolio that directly influences the success of NZ farmers and growers

• Shape strategy across some of New Zealand's most important agricultural categories

• Broad executive leadership scope spanning commercial performance, supplier partnerships and people leadership

• Christchurch-based role with national impact

• Join a purpose-led, Kiwi-owned co-operative committed to the future of the rural sector

Me pēhea te tono | How to apply

If you're ready to shape the future of agronomy, fertiliser and horticulture within one of New Zealand's most recognised rural organisations, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now and help strengthen the success of Kiwi farmers, growers and rural communities nationwide.

Applications close: Wednesday 5 August 2026

We will be reviewing applications and progressing suitable candidates as they are received, so we encourage early applications.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand and will be required to complete relevant pre-employment checks.