Head of Growing Operations

About the role

The Head of Growing Operations leads all indoor farming production at Xantory’s UAE facilities. Reporting to the Director of Operations, this full‑time onsite position owns every tray, growth cycle and kilogram harvested, ensuring high‑quality, food‑safe produce.

Key responsibilities

• Set production plans and targets for all indoor crop lines and monitor daily crop health, growth cycles and harvest schedules.
• Manage climate, irrigation and nutrient systems in collaboration with technical and MEP teams, and resolve any yield or health issues promptly.
• Ensure food safety compliance, run regular quality audits and maintain hygiene protocols across growing areas.
• Lead and schedule the production team, including the Head of Leafy Greens & Edible Flowers, and provide training on techniques, safety and equipment.
• Track yield, wastage and efficiency data, refine growing recipes and pilot AI‑driven monitoring and automation tools.

Required profile

• 5+ years of experience in indoor, vertical or controlled‑environment agriculture.
• Proven experience managing production teams, including scheduling, training and performance management.
• Strong understanding of food safety standards and contamination‑control practices.
• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Plant Science or related field.

Required skills

• Hydroponic and/or aeroponic growing systems.
• Climate control, irrigation and nutrient management.
• Farm management software and sensor‑based monitoring.
• Data analysis for yield, wastage and efficiency improvement.
• Interest in AI and automation tools for production.