Horticulture and Marketing Officer - Edinburgh, United Kingdom - Scottish Government

Scottish Government

Verified Company

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

3 weeks ago

Posted by:

Tom O´Connor

beBee Recruiter

Description

Overview:

An exciting opportunity has arisen in the Horticulture and Marketing Unit within the Agriculture and Rural Economy Directorate to play a key role in influencing, developing and advising a wide network of internal and external stakeholders in relation to plant health and the marketing of horticultural produce.
This is an exciting time to join the SASA Division as part of the Horticulture and Marketing Unit.

This team works on high value outcomes across the horticultural sector, frequently engaging with stakeholders to provide technical advice, and undertake checks and inspections to ensure compliance with GB rules in relation to plant health and the marketing of horticultural produce.

As a Division of the Scottish Government Directorate for Agriculture and Rural Economy, SASA supports Scotland's arable and horticultural sectors by developing policy and providing scientific advice, research, surveillance and inspection services.

Our staff conduct a wide range of functions in offices, laboratories, glasshouses, farm buildings and farmland as well as at third party inspection sites.

The Horticulture and Marketing Unit (HMU) is a branch within SASA and consists of 23 specialist inspectors and support staff based in Edinburgh and Hamilton.

Our work is governed by legislation covering plant health and rules relating to the marketing of fresh fruit and vegetables.

We undertake inspection and surveillance activities at all stages of production and marketing including import, export and inland sites throughout Scotland.

This work is part of a multi layered approach to prevent harmful pests and pathogens entering or becoming established in GB as well as ensuring any plant material leaving Scotland meets the required standard.

As part of this work, we manage outbreaks or interceptions of quarantine pests and pathogens to prevent potential establishment or spread.

We also undertake inspections in relation to the Marketing Standards for fresh fruit and vegetables to ensure trader compliance with GB marketing rules.

As a Horticulture and Marketing Officer, you will visit a wide range of stakeholders connected to the horticultural sector including growers, packers, traders, distributors, retailers, public or trade related organisations, and the general public.

This will include inspections, audits and advisory visits.

It is important to note that you will be expected to drive to various locations throughout Scotland. This will include early morning, evening and weekend working with occasional overnight stays when required. A willingness to undertake these visits is therefore a prerequisite for the role.

Responsibilities:

Inspect plants and plant products at points of import in relation to plant health controls and the marketing rules for fresh fruit and vegetables.
Inspect and certify plants and plant products for export in accordance to the requirements of the destination country.
Undertake plant health monitoring and surveillance activities for specific plant pests and pathogens.
Undertake conformity checks with the marketing standards for a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables through all stages of the distribution chain to the final point of retail sale.
Where noncompliance is identified, investigate and organise suitable controls which are in line with legislation and operational procedures. Liaise with the trade, and other governmental bodies and organisations where appropriate.
Provide guidance in relation to horticulture, plant health and the marketing standards in support of inspection activities.

Competencies
Self-Awareness

Communications and Engagement

Analysis and Use of Evidence

Improving Performance

Essential Criteria & Qualifications:
A qualification in Horticulture or Agriculture, or equivalent experience in this discipline (please specify).

A full valid driving licence that enables the post holder to drive in the UK is required.

Essential Criteria

A practical understanding of the horticultural sector and/or the trade in plants, plant products and fresh produce.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build supportive and collaborative relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
A proven ability to be a team player who works well with others but can carry out individual tasks as required with mínimal supervision.
Strong planning and organisational skills including the ability to use initiative and judgement to prioritise competing demands when working under pressure.

Location
Roddinglaw Road, Edinburgh, EH12 9FJ

Interview and Assessment
If you are selected for interview, the questions will be shared in advance.

Minimum time in post

You will be expected to remain in post for a minimum of three years unless successful at gaining promotion to a higher Band or Grade.

HOW TO APPLY & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

How to Apply

Additional information
For further information, please download and r