Team Leader Facility Greenhouse Horticulture

at  Wageningen University Research

As a team leader of the facility management of the Business Unit Horticulture, you are responsible for the smooth operation of the greenhouse complex at the location in Bleiswijk. The research greenhouses are the heart of our organization. All of our experiments take place there, and knowledge is developed to make the horticulture sector more sustainable.
In the role of team leader for the facility management, you will lead around 20 skilled employees, who together are responsible for the planning, execution, and care of the experimental crops needed for the research. You ensure a safe and open working atmosphere in which your team members can thrive. You are responsible for the budget and personnel planning of the experimental farm.
Together with the head of the technical service, who is part of your team, you ensure that the greenhouse facilities are well-maintained and meet the research requirements. You maintain contact with suppliers and other external partners. You are responsible for the necessary permits for our operations and are the first point of contact for the municipality and government agencies. You recognize the importance of rules for safe and hygienic working and ensure that they are enforced. You understand the high standards our research must meet, maintain good relationships with the researchers and assistants, and think along with them. You also have contact with the facility services of WUR at the corporate level, for example, regarding energy contracts. You report directly to the Business Unit manager.

• ensuring the optimal functioning and well-being of your team and fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect;
• good planning and execution of a wide range of experimental crops, in consultation with the researchers;
• maintaining contact with external parties and internal services regarding operations;
• ensuring smooth operations, including maintenance of facilities and equipment (in collaboration with the Head of Technical Services);
• enforcing rules regarding safe and hygienic working conditions;
• monitoring the financial performance of the experimental farm.